As a contact tracer, I often find myself in conversations that are uncomfortable for both parties involved. “I can’t disclose the identity of the person who tested positive,” I explain, “but I can inform you about when you may have been exposed.”
“What good is that?” the caller retorts. “How am I supposed to know if I’m infected if you won’t tell me who might have exposed me?”
“The public health department has identified you as someone who came into contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19,” I continue. “For confidentiality reasons, I can’t provide names. However, I need to gather some information from you, give you quarantine guidelines, and answer any questions you might have.”
Typically, those I contact have been exposed by a friend or family member, frequently learning about the positive test result through calls, texts, or social media. Once an individual in our county tests positive, they are instructed to isolate themselves for ten days after symptoms begin and must also be fever-free for three consecutive days. This isolation can be particularly difficult for those living in smaller spaces, as many are confined to a single room. The overarching public health objective is to keep infected individuals and their contacts away from the community for roughly 14 days.
We advise contacts to consult their healthcare provider and consider being tested if they develop symptoms such as a cough, fever, or shortness of breath. We send out isolation instructions for those who are symptomatic, quarantine guidelines for asymptomatic individuals, and work exclusion letters to employers upon request. During our calls, we also collect demographic data and a brief medical history while discussing the importance of self-isolation for 14 days from the date of exposure.
“Can I take my dog for a walk?”
Unfortunately, no. Leaving your home is not permitted.
With the pandemic escalating, a significant number of contact tracers are being recruited by various organizations, states, and non-profits. Estimates suggest that the U.S. may need between 100,000 and 300,000 contact tracers during this crisis. Public health departments are on the lookout for individuals with strong customer service skills, medical knowledge, an understanding of patient confidentiality, and familiarity with COVID-19.
Some tracers engage with the initial positive case to gather information about their recent contacts. Others focus on reaching out to those individuals who came into close proximity with a confirmed case—defined as being within six feet for over 15 minutes, irrespective of mask usage.
In our county, we maintain a dedicated COVID-19 hotline that provides access to resources and testing information. While some people require substantial support to quarantine or isolate, others rely on their personal networks to deliver groceries, medications, and even walk their dogs without direct contact.
We follow up with those in quarantine, though not on a daily basis, to check if they have shown any symptoms. If someone develops symptoms and tests positive, they are reclassified as a confirmed case, and the contact tracing process restarts.
If we cannot reach a case or their contacts after multiple attempts, we will send a letter. When public health authorities reach out, it’s crucial for individuals to respond promptly.
Most of the people I interact with are understanding and cooperative, yet anxiety about illness, loss, and economic stability often permeates these conversations. The emotional toll of COVID-19 on my community is significant, and it’s a collective effort to minimize loss and promote safety.
To reduce transmission, remember to steer clear of the three C’s:
- CLOSED spaces with poor ventilation
- CROWDED areas
- CLOSE contact with others
Please wear a face mask in public, wash your hands regularly, and maintain your safety. I truly hope I don’t have to call you.
For more insights on minimizing risks, check out this post on home insemination. Additionally, if you’re looking for authoritative information on this topic, visit this resource on pregnancy.
In summary, as a contact tracer, I navigate complex conversations about exposure to COVID-19 while prioritizing confidentiality and public health guidelines. The emotional weight of these interactions underscores the importance of community cooperation in minimizing the spread.