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Kenya Steele, Helen Valier, Kimberly Pilkinton, Vanessa K. Tilney, Camille Leugers, Gregorio Gomez, Jessica Mantel, Brian Reed, Steven Starks, M.D. , FAPA, Lechauncy Woodard, David Buck, Omolola Adepoju, Winston Liaw, Kristin Kassaw, Leah Fowler, Joel Blumberg, Ruth Bush, Kendra Smith, Ph.D., Luis Torres, Kathleen Jones, Bettina Beech, William Elder, Michelle Carroll Turpin, and Omar Matuk-Villazon
Throughout history, pandemics have devastated populations and changed the trajectory of mankind. The global effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic have disproportionately affected certain regions and population groups. This course provides an overview of the far-reaching impact of COVID-19 and presents contact tracing as a tool to mitigate the spread of the disease. Contact tracers are critically needed to help state and local health departments, particularly in large and diverse states such as Texas. This course was developed during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus, some of the data regarding disease...
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Throughout history, pandemics have devastated populations and changed the trajectory of mankind. The global effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic have disproportionately affected certain regions and population groups. This course provides an overview of the far-reaching impact of COVID-19 and presents contact tracing as a tool to mitigate the spread of the disease. Contact tracers are critically needed to help state and local health departments, particularly in large and diverse states such as Texas. This course was developed during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus, some of the data regarding disease prevalence, mortality, and vaccines have changed over time. The content, which addresses issues specific to population health and contact tracing during a pandemic, remains relevant. Acknowledgments: The Epidemiology and Pregnancy and COVID-19 module authors would like to thank Andrew Roblyer, CHSE, Bettina Beech, MD, MPH, and LeChauncy Woodard, MD, MPH, for their assistance in creating illustrations and providing editorial feedback. The Community Resources team would like to thank Gabriela Mohr, Doctoral Student, University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, for her help in developing references. The authors of the Ethical, Legal, and Regulatory Considerations module authors would like to thank their research assistant Cody Miller. The authors of the Vaccine and Spread module would like to thank Andrew Robyler and C. Griffin Litwin, BA, a UH NSM post-baccalaureate student (BA in Politics), for his instructional design expertise. Thank you to Matthew Castillo and Iggy Harrison for their help in creating the video modules.
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Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Emphasizes contact tracing best practices, which are essential for public health professionals
Suitable for individuals with a background in public health, epidemiology, or community health
Useful for learners seeking to enhance their skills in disease surveillance and outbreak response
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations in contact tracing
Leverages the expertise of healthcare professionals and researchers in the field
May require additional resources for learners who need a more foundational understanding of epidemiology

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Reviews summary

Public health during pandemic: contact tracing and beyond

This course provided training in contact tracing during the COVID-19 pandemic and offered a comprehensive overview of the public health impacts of pandemics throughout history. It received mostly positive reviews with many learners expressing that the materials were informative, thorough, and well-organized. While some concerns were expressed about outdated information and a lack of hands-on training in contact tracing techniques, the overall sentiment towards the course was positive.
Well organized
"The course is very complete, multidisciplinary, meets the objective of analyzing the situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic."
"This course was very informative with a good balance of video sessions and reading materials."
Comprehensive
"This course is very much important, not only during this pandemic period, but also in public health in general."
"Very informative. Have learned so much about not only the virus itself, but how it impacts people in our communities."
"It educate a lot on how to use help and find help in time of the pandemic. It is a good resource for many that want to learn more."
"Course is completely useful. Easy to follow, I think thata even for non health care people.It is practical, and a lot can be learnt about Contact tracing, that it is key to put a brake to Covid 19."
"This course was full of information that was somehow comforting. I'm not sure if I will use it in an employment situation but I definitely can use the tools to have more compassionate conversations with people in my community."
Very informative
"This was a very informative course."
"This was a very informative and well planned course"
"very informative and teaches about a vital role in containing the Covid-19 virus."
"I learned so much about COVID-19, and feel prepared to help my community as a contact tracer."
Outdated information
"I am taking this course in February of 2020 and while some of the content is informative and relevant, I feel that a number of the resources used in this class, were somewhat outdated as many of them were from March, April and May of 2020, which in pandemic time, feels like a lifetime ago."
Lack of hands-on training
"There should be a way to audit classes and take tests without buying a certificate. I took all of the classed but it6 shows that I am only 87%, which is incorrect."
"A good amount of the material from the first week was fairly informative. However, the knowledge checks wee consistently poorly designed. Much of material in week two was superficial to the point of uselessness. This course was almost absent of training for calls and interactions with contacts. There was only one slide in the entire course that showed an example of the data sheets that might be used. This slide was almost impossible to see and was glossed over. Overall, this is a course of poor quality."
"I am taking this course in February of 2020 and while some of the content is informative and relevant, I feel that a number of the resources used in this class, were somewhat outdated as many of them were from March, April and May of 2020, which in pandemic time, feels like a lifetime ago."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Population Health During A Pandemic: Contact Tracing and Beyond with these activities:
Review the principles of contact tracing
Start by reviewing the basic principles of contact tracing to ensure a solid foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Read the CDC's guidelines on contact tracing
  • Watch a video tutorial on contact tracing
Role-Play Contact Tracing Scenarios
Gain practical experience in contact tracing by participating in role-playing scenarios.
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Show steps
  • Review the principles of contact tracing.
  • Develop a case scenario for a COVID-19 patient.
  • Identify the contacts of the patient.
  • Interview the contacts to gather information about their exposure to COVID-19.
Attend a Contact Tracing Workshop
Enhance your knowledge and skills in contact tracing by attending a workshop led by experienced professionals.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Research contact tracing workshops in your area.
  • Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
  • Attend the workshop and take notes.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Practice identifying close contacts
Conduct practice drills to improve your ability to identify close contacts, which is crucial for effective contact tracing.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Use the CDC's contact tracing worksheet
  • Interview a mock contact
Review "Epidemiology in Public Health" by Robert Friis and Thomas Sellers.
Solidify your understanding of the fundamental concepts in epidemiology by reviewing a comprehensive textbook on the subject.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters assigned for each module.
  • Take notes of key concepts and ideas.
  • Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.
Participate in a Contact Tracing Discussion Group
Exchange ideas and knowledge with fellow students by participating in a discussion group focused on contact tracing.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Join a contact tracing discussion group online or in your community.
  • Participate in regular discussions on topics related to contact tracing.
  • Share your own experiences and insights.
Practice conducting contact tracing interviews
Engage in practice contact tracing interviews to enhance your communication and interviewing skills, enabling you to effectively gather information from contacts.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Role-play a contact tracing interview
  • Record and review your interviews
Develop a COVID-19 Contact Tracing Plan
Apply your knowledge of contact tracing to create a comprehensive plan that can be implemented in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak in your community.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Research best practices for contact tracing.
  • Develop a plan that outlines the steps that will be taken to identify, isolate, and monitor contacts of COVID-19 patients.
  • Identify the resources that will be needed to implement the plan.
  • Create a training program for contact tracers.
Volunteer with a Local Health Department
Gain hands-on experience in contact tracing by volunteering with a local health department.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Contact your local health department and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Complete any required training.
  • Assist with contact tracing activities, such as interviewing patients and identifying their contacts.
Develop a Public Health Campaign to Promote Contact Tracing
Apply your knowledge of contact tracing and public health to create a campaign that will increase awareness of the importance of contact tracing and encourage people to cooperate with contact tracers.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Research the principles of public health campaigns.
  • Develop a message that is clear, concise, and persuasive.
  • Create a plan for distributing your message through various channels.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of your campaign.
Volunteer with a local health department
Gain valuable hands-on experience and contribute to the community by volunteering with a local health department involved in contact tracing.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Contact your local health department
  • Complete the necessary training
  • Shadow experienced contact tracers
Create a contact tracing plan for your community
Develop a comprehensive contact tracing plan that can be implemented in your community, showcasing your understanding of the principles and procedures involved.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Research best practices for contact tracing
  • Consult with local health experts
  • Write a detailed contact tracing plan
Participate in a contact tracing simulation competition
Challenge yourself and enhance your contact tracing skills by participating in a simulation competition, where you can test your abilities against others.
Browse courses on Contact Tracing
Show steps
  • Find a contact tracing simulation competition
  • Practice your contact tracing skills
  • Compete in the simulation

Career center

Learners who complete Population Health During A Pandemic: Contact Tracing and Beyond will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Contact Tracer
Contact Tracers are essential to the public health response to COVID-19. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Contact Tracer. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and contact tracing best practices. If you are interested in working as a Contact Tracer, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Epidemiologist
An Epidemiologist investigates the causes and distribution of disease and other health-related conditions in populations. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become an Epidemiologist. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and methods for investigating disease outbreaks. If you are interested in working as an Epidemiologist, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Public Health Specialist
Public Health Specialists are responsible for protecting and promoting the health of populations. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Public Health Specialist. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and public health best practices. If you are interested in working as a Public Health Specialist, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Infection Control Nurse
Infection Control Nurses work to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become an Infection Control Nurse. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, methods for preventing infection, and infection control best practices. If you are interested in working as an Infection Control Nurse, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
Emergency Preparedness Coordinators develop and implement plans to prepare for and respond to emergencies. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become an Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and emergency preparedness best practices. If you are interested in working as an Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Health Educator
Health Educators promote health and prevent disease in communities. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Health Educator. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and health education best practices. If you are interested in working as a Health Educator, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide nursing care to patients. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Registered Nurse. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and the role of Registered Nurses in public health. If you are interested in working as a Registered Nurse, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants provide medical care under the supervision of a physician. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Physician Assistant. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and the role of Physician Assistants in public health. If you are interested in working as a Physician Assistant, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information on their use. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Pharmacist. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and the role of pharmacists in public health. If you are interested in working as a Pharmacist, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people cope with mental health issues and social problems. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Social Worker. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and the role of Social Workers in public health. If you are interested in working as a Social Worker, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Data Analyst. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and how to use data to track and prevent disease outbreaks. If you are interested in working as a Data Analyst, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Statistician. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and how to use statistics to track and prevent disease outbreaks. If you are interested in working as a Statistician, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Grant Writer
Grant Writers write proposals and secure funding for organizations. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Grant Writer. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and how to write grant proposals for public health programs. If you are interested in working as a Grant Writer, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts develop and evaluate public policies. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Policy Analyst. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and how to develop policies to improve public health. If you are interested in working as a Policy Analyst, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
Public Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Specialists communicate with the public and the media on behalf of organizations. This course provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Public Affairs Specialist. You will learn about the history of pandemics, the epidemiology of COVID-19, and how to communicate effectively with the public about public health issues. If you are interested in working as a Public Affairs Specialist, this course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.

Reading list

We've selected 17 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Population Health During A Pandemic: Contact Tracing and Beyond.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to conduct contact tracing for infectious diseases, including COVID-19. It valuable resource for public health professionals and anyone involved in contact tracing efforts.
Provides practical guidance for health workers on how to conduct contact tracing during a pandemic. It valuable resource for anyone who is involved in this important public health activity.
Provides an overview of the COVID-19 pandemic, its origins, spread, and impact on global health and society. It valuable resource for understanding the science behind the pandemic and its implications for public health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the emerging infectious diseases that are threatening our world. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history and implications of these deadly diseases.
This report provides an overview of the ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations associated with contact tracing for COVID-19. It valuable resource for policymakers and public health officials.
This report provides an overview of the global health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes data on morbidity, mortality, and the impact on health systems.
Provides a detailed account of the COVID-19 pandemic, from its origins to its impact on global health and society. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history and implications of this unprecedented event.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of pandemics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the origins and impact of these deadly events.
Provides a detailed account of the 1918 flu pandemic. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history and implications of this deadly pandemic.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of vaccines, their development, and their use in public health. It valuable resource for healthcare professionals and anyone interested in learning more about vaccines.
This report provides an overview of the use of digital technologies for contact tracing. It includes a discussion of the benefits and challenges of using digital tools for this purpose.
Provides an overview of the psychological impact of pandemics. It includes a discussion of the fear, anxiety, and other psychological challenges that people face during a pandemic.
Provides an overview of the sociological impact of pandemics. It includes a discussion of the social and economic factors that contribute to the spread of pandemics and the impact of pandemics on society.
Provides an overview of the economic impact of pandemics. It includes a discussion of the costs of pandemics, the impact of pandemics on businesses, and the economic policies that can be used to mitigate the impact of pandemics.
Provides an overview of the role of the media in pandemics. It includes a discussion of the impact of the media on public opinion, the role of the media in disseminating information about pandemics, and the ethical challenges that journalists face when reporting on pandemics.
Provides an overview of the cultural impact of pandemics. It includes a discussion of the impact of pandemics on art, literature, music, and film.
Provides an overview of the religious impact of pandemics. It includes a discussion of the role of religion in responding to pandemics, the impact of pandemics on religious beliefs and practices, and the religious challenges that arise during pandemics.

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