Preliminary
Infectious Disease Summary, Utah, May 2007
Disease Data and Graphics
A preliminary total number of confirmed and suspect cases for selected diseases, reported by Utah health districts, is provided below (Table I and Figure I). These numbers are subject to change upon the completion of ongoing disease investigations. "Suspect" cases are cases that may become confirmed upon final investigation or may be dismissed as a case when the investigation has been completed. Figure II represents the percent change in selected communicable disease incidence in 2007 when compared to a 5-year average.
Click on the disease names in the table to access their corresponding fact sheets. Click here for sexually transmitted disease epidemiologic data. Click here for AIDS/HIV epidemiologic data.
May 2007 Epidemiology Highlights
Campylobacteriosis
The number of reported Campylobacter infections has been higher than expected in Utah for the year, particularly from areas along the Wasatch Front. Several local health departments are investigating an outbreak of this disease. Campylobacteriosis is a bacterial infection of the stomach and intestines caused by Campylobacter bacteria. Eating or drinking food or water that is contaminated with the bacteria puts people at risk of acquiring the infection. Improperly cooked poultry, untreated water, and unpasteurized milk are the main sources of infection. Click here for more information on campylobacteriosis.
Haemophilus influenzae (invasive disease)
A case of invasive Haemophilus influenzae (type b) disease was reported in May, making it the first reported case in nearly a year and a half. This is an unusual event given the availability of a safe and effective vaccine to prevent the serious disease. Click here for more information on the disease. Click here to read information about the vaccine that can provide immunity to Haemophilus influenzae type b.
Rabies
Three cases of animal rabies (in bats) have been reported to the Utah Department of Health for the year. In order to protect yourself and others from the dangerous infection, vaccinate dogs, cats and other pets; avoid contact with wild animals and report stray animals to animal control officers. Click here to read more information about rabies.
Invasive Streptococcal Diseases
The number of invasive streptococcal group B infections reported to the Utah Department of Health was also higher than expected in May. Public health officials are collaborating with medical providers to determine why there has been an increase in the number of cases associated with this disease. Pregnant women with a streptococcal group B infection, who can pass the disease to their newborn children, and people in long-term care facilities, are the main groups within the population that are most commonly affected by the disease.
