As a contact tracer, my role often involves delivering difficult news. “I can’t disclose the name of the individual who tested positive for COVID-19,” I explain, “but I can tell you the approximate time frame of your exposure.”
The response is usually one of frustration. “How am I supposed to assess my risk if I don’t know who may have infected me?” the caller often retorts.
I clarify, “Your information was provided to our public health department as someone who came into contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case. Due to privacy regulations, I cannot share the identity of that person. However, I would like to gather some details from you, explain quarantine protocols, and answer any questions you may have.”
Typically, individuals on the receiving end of my calls have been exposed to the virus by a friend or family member. Often, they’ve learned about the positive test result through informal channels—text messages, social media, or word of mouth.
Once a case is confirmed in our county, the infected individual is instructed to isolate for ten days following the onset of symptoms and until they have been fever-free for three consecutive days without medication. For many, this isolation can be particularly difficult, especially in smaller living spaces where they may have to confine themselves to a single room. The overarching goal of public health officials is to minimize community transmission by keeping confirmed cases and their contacts isolated for approximately 14 days.
We inform those in contact that they should reach out to their healthcare provider and consider getting tested if they exhibit symptoms such as a cough, fever, or shortness of breath. We provide written instructions regarding isolation for symptomatic individuals and quarantine for those without symptoms. If requested, we also supply letters for employers to facilitate their absence from work. Gathering demographic information and taking a brief medical history is standard procedure. It’s crucial to explain the importance of quarantining for 14 days from the last date of exposure to the positive case; individuals are advised to remain at home except for essential medical appointments, as asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the virus.
“Can I at least walk my dog?” the caller often asks.
I regretfully inform them, “No, you should remain at home.”
Currently, there is a significant demand for contact tracers, with estimates suggesting that the U.S. needs to recruit between 100,000 and 300,000 individuals for this role. Public health departments, along with various organizations and private entities, seek individuals with strong customer service skills, some medical knowledge, and an understanding of confidentiality regarding patient information.
Some contact tracers are responsible for interviewing the initial positive case to ascertain details such as who they were with 48 hours prior to symptom onset and the locations they visited. Others follow up with contacts, defined as those who spent more than 15 minutes within six feet of a confirmed case, regardless of mask usage.
In our county, we maintain a dedicated COVID-19 hotline that provides resources, including information about testing. Some individuals require significant assistance to navigate quarantine or isolation, while others may have family and friends who can support them by delivering food, medication, or walking their dog without direct contact.
We do follow-ups, though not daily. Part of our procedure involves checking whether individuals have developed symptoms during their quarantine period. If they do show symptoms and test positive, they are often reclassified as confirmed cases, which initiates the process of notifying their contacts anew.
If we cannot reach a case or their contacts after multiple attempts, we will send a formal letter. If you receive communication from your local health department, please respond promptly.
While most of the individuals I interact with are cooperative, anxiety is common, as many are grappling with the fear of illness, mourning loved ones lost to the virus, or worrying about their financial situation. Listening to their stories about the impact of COVID-19 within the community can be truly heart-wrenching.
As we navigate these unprecedented times, it’s essential that everyone adheres to public health guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus. To learn more about effective measures, consider this insightful article from The Salt Lake Tribune, which explores transmission dynamics and precautionary steps you can take.
Remember to avoid the three C’s:
- CLOSED spaces with inadequate ventilation
- CROWDED places
- CLOSE contact with others
Please remember to wear a mask in public, practice good hand hygiene, and prioritize your safety. I sincerely hope I won’t have to reach out to you.
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Summary:
Contact tracing is a critical public health function during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on identifying and informing individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. This role involves gathering information, explaining quarantine protocols, and providing support to those affected. By following guidelines and maintaining communication with health departments, communities can work together to minimize transmission and safeguard public health.