Contact Tracing

Contact tracing is meant to promote rapid diagnosis and treatment of new cases, and to prevent further spread of infection. These are particularly pertinent for our nonprofit, business, and university partners — contact tracing can help prevent volunteers from spreading COVID-19 in vulnerable communities, as well as fostering a safe and healthy community. 

Step 1.  The contact tracing process is initiated when an individual who is symptomatic and seeking treatment tests positive for COVID-19. 

Step 2. A contact tracer or case investigator then determines the number of contacts this person spent time within 5 days of symptom onset.

Step 3. These contacts are notified that they may already be carrying the virus and need to stay at home, and are told to look for any signs of the virus in case they need to be tested and/or seek treatment. 

Step 4. During that time, a care coordinator will be available to support contacts by identifying local resources and aids to help address any arising needs while trying to maintain isolation.

Our contact tracing blog post goes more in depth into how volunteers and organizations can help with contact tracing efforts.