This training will provide basic knowledge of communicable diseases applicable to substance use disorders (SUD) and will meet the criteria for minimum knowledge.

Communicable Disease and Substance Use

The relationship between drug use, high-risk behaviors associated with drug use and communicable disease transmission is explained. Prevention and treatment strategies are described as it relates to individuals with a substance use disorder.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) 

This lesson will explain what STIs are, how they can occur, and their consequences. A list of the common STIs is provided along with an in-depth explanation on each of their characteristics, symptoms, and treatments.

HIV/AIDS

HIV and AIDS are defined and their relationship is explained. This lesson will explore history, symptoms, diagnosis, and transmission. There are many myths and facts regarding HIV and AIDS, a list is provided to help your understanding of what these diseases are.

Viral Hepatitis 

There are three common types of viral hepatitis. An overview of hepatitis is provided and then a in depth explanation of each of the three types is explored. This lesson will explain the stages of the disease, transmission, treatment, and prevention.

Tuberculosis (TB)

The end of this lesson will define TB and explore its characteristics. An explanation and list of general symptoms is provided, along with statistics on the diseases impact on the population. The difference between Latent TB Infection and TB disease is explored through descriptions of each of their characteristics, symptoms, transmission, treatment, and more.

Communicable Disease Prevention

Communicable disease prevention methods for professionals with client contact. Standard precautions and the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is described.

• Are you a staff member with client contact at a licensed treatment provider?
• Do you require knowledge and skills adequate for addressing communicable disease related issues in the client population to meet “Minimum Knowledge Standards”?

• Identify transmission methods, symptoms, and treatments for communicable diseases including STIs, HIV, viral hepatitis and tuberculosis.
• Describe communicable disease prevention methods.
• Recognize risk factors that increase risk of exposure to communicable disease.
• Follow standard precautions to prevent disease transmission.
• Identify connections between communicable disease and substance use.
• Recognize when individuals should get tested for communicable disease.
• Identify HIV disease stages and key characteristics and symptoms.
• List local HIV and STI services available in your area.