Viral Gastroenteritis Information
Gastroenteritis means inflammation of the stomach and small and large intestines. Viral gastroenteritis is an infection caused by a variety of viruses that results in vomiting or diarrhea. It is often called the "stomach flu", although it is not caused by the influenza virus. It easily spreads from person to person by touching contaminated surfaces and through contaminated food or water. Outbreaks can happen to people of all ages and in a variety of settings. For additional information on viral gastroenteritis please click here.
For additional resources including cleaning recommendations, click here.
Influenza Health Advisory
The 2011-2012 influenza season is upon us. Click on the corresponding link to find out the latest information about flu vaccine updates, guidance for health care providers, and general information about influenza disease. Click here to find out about 2011-2012 Health Department Sponsored Flu Clinics.
New clinician guidance on reporting, testing, treatment, and infection control is available in the latest Health Alerts.
Promoting Healthier International Travel
Many travelers head overseas without the protection of effective vaccines or medications to prevent common, debilitating and life-threatening diseases such as malaria and viral hepatitis. The San Francisco Department of Public Health is sponsoring a local public awareness campaign to encourage international travelers to visit a travel medicine specialist prior to departure. Read more ...
If your health system does not offer a travel medicine specialist, the AITC Immunization & Travel Clinic is open to the public.
Measles Cases - On the Rise, Europe and USA
"I need shots to go to Europe?" You might need the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports over 11,000 recent measles cases throughout Europe, particularly in France and other Western European countries. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also reports a rise in the number of measles cases in the USA, mainly in persons returning home from international travel. Measles vaccination can be started as early as age 6 months. See our Measles Page and our new Measles VaxFax for more information.