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Introduction A. Definition. A communicable disease is any disease that can be transmitted from one individual directly to another individual. Body excretions provide the mode for transmission. Some communicable diseases can be spread by casual contact, such as colds, flu and tuberculosis from respiratory droplets, such as from coughing, sneezing or runny noses. Other communicable diseases require contact with blood from an infected individual, such as Hepatitis B and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (the virus that cases AIDS). Other communicable diseases require intimate contact with an infected individuals body fluids or genitalia, such as chlamydia, herpes and syphilis. B. Prevention. One measure to prevent communicable diseases is to maintain appropriate immunizations and vaccinations. UAH encourages incoming students to have completed all recommended immunizations and to be aware of the availability of the meningococcal, hepatitis B and influenza vaccines. C. Purpose. The purpose of this policy is to develop guidelines for the education and protection of both individuals and the University community at large. Non-discrimination. The University shall not unlawfully discriminate in enrollment or employment against any individual infected with a communicable disease.
Policy Foundations A. University decisions will be guided by medical advice that is current and well-informed. University actions will recognize and consider the interests of individual members of the University community together with the interests of the University community at large and in accordance with existing laws and sound medical advice and practice.
Confidentiality A. The University shall comply with all pertinent statutes and regulations which protect the privacy and welfare of members of the University community who suffer from a communicable disease as well as the welfare of others within the University community. B. The University will maintain procedural safeguards throughout the University with the objective of protecting the privacy of persons living with a communicable disease. C. All confidential medical information about an individual will be handled in compliance with legal requirements and professional ethical standards. The University will not disclose the identity of any employee or student who has a communicable disease, except as authorized by law, when necessary for the administration of this policy, or pursuant to guidelines following the general standards included in the American College Health Association's Recommended Standards and Practices for a College Health Program, fourth edition:
“In general, it is recommended that no specified or detailed information concerning complaints or diagnosis be provided to faculty, administrators, parents or relative, without the expressed written consent of the patient in each case.”
In some cases, health providers are required by law to report infectious diseases. Chapter 420-4-1 identifies diseases/conditions which must be reported to the county or state Health Department. These include (but are not limited to): measles, tuberculosis, E. coli, HIV and mumps. |
UAH Communicable Diseases Policy |
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113 University Center Phone: 256-824-6203
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