Contact Tracing

Covid-19 contact tracers track down who may have had contact with someone who is sick with Covid-19 in order to alert them, and quarantine individuals who may be contagious. Contact tracing is one of the most important strategies, in conjunction with testing, for containing the virus. Learn the basics of virus transmission, incubation and infection, and public health strategies to combat Covid-19, develop strong communication skills, including effective interviewing techniques and cross-cultural competency. Program participants only need a smart phone, tablet, or laptop with reliable WIFI in order to access class sessions, readings and materials, and submit assignments. We welcome all applicants with a HS diploma or equivalent. The program focuses on the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2, with attention to channels and speed of transmission, incubation and infectious periods, infection rats, and symptoms. Students will learn why contact tracing is an essential public health intervention in stopping chains of transmission, in association with widespread community testing. Students will learn how to conduct effective contact tracing: investigation, tracing, cross-cultural communication, ethics, and accurate data collection. Students will also gain valuable employment-readiness skills, including effective interviewing.