Infectious Disease
Infectious diseases are caused by organisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites). Most organisms are harmless, but under certain conditions, some organisms cause disease. Infectious diseases can pass from person to person, though some are transmitted by insects/ animals or within contaminated food or water.
Symptoms of infection vary, but often include fever and fatigue. Most people can recover from mild infections at home, however, life-threatening infections may require hospitalization.
Many infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox, can be prevented by vaccines. Frequent and thorough hand-washing also helps protect you from most infectious diseases.
Each infectious disease has its own specific signs and symptoms; common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Coughing
Seek medical attention if you:
- Have been bitten by an animal
- Are having trouble breathing
- Have been coughing for more than a week
- Have severe headache with fever
- Experience a rash or swelling
- Have unexplained or prolonged fever
- Have sudden vision problems
COVID-19
Barton Health has the resources and expertise, along with emergency management preparation, to provide appropriate care for COVID-19-afflicted patients. COVID-19 Information
The federal COVID-19 public health emergency has ended, marking a shift toward ongoing infection control processes similar to influenza (flu) or respiratory syncytial (RSV) viruses.
Barton Health will follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and California Department of Public Health (CDPH) guidelines regarding COVID mitigation and testing and remains prepared to treat patients as needed.
Flu (Influenza)
Barton Health monitors the seasonal spread of flu viruses is prepared to help treat patients who may need extra care. Some people, such as people 65 years and older, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications. Flu Information
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection)
Barton Health is prepared to help treat patients, including those who may need extra care. Infants, young children and older adults are at increased risk of severe RSV. RSV Information
Respiratory Virus Testing/ Treatment
If you are are an existing Barton Health patient, experiencing mild symptoms of illness and it is not an emergency, please call your primary care provider:
- Barton Family Medicine: 530.543.5660
- Barton Primary Care at Stateline Medical Center: 775.589.8960
- Barton Primary Care at Fourth Street: 530.543.5750
- Barton Community Health Center: 530.543.5623
- Barton Pediatrics: 530.543.5550
If you need medical care and are not a Barton patient, or you cannot be seen in a timely manner at your provider’s office, you can walk-in:
For emergency medical issues, Barton’s Emergency Department is accessible 24/7: 2170 South Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Or call 9-1-1. (The emergency department prioritizes patients based on medical need.)
Vaccines Are Available
COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, as well as seasonal flu vaccines and the new RSV vaccine, are available through local pharmacies, public health departments, or may be available from your primary care provider.
- California residents are encouraged to use California's MyTurn tool to find a vaccine appointment.
- Nevada residents can use Immunize Nevada's vaccine finder tool to search for nearby vaccination opportunities
