A new system automates notifications for people who have been in close contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Clark County, Nevada
The Southern Nevada Health District has launched the system to help expedite the notification process.
“I really think this will be a game changer. The speed is one of the most important things here. The second someone is positive, we want to make sure they’re separated from people who are susceptible to this disease,” said Dr. Dr. Vit Kraushaar, a medical investigator with SNDH.
A spokesperson for the agency says it will alert those who have been in potential close contact with a person diagnosed with the coronavirus disease.
Anyone getting a notification will also get information on how to self-quarantine and enroll in a symptom monitoring app.
If someone reports signs or symptoms of the disease, the Health District gets an alert and can arrange for testing.
The Health District says it’s expanded its disease investigators on staff from four to 60 during the pandemic.
Officials call quick identification of people who have been exposed to the virus an important step in stopping the virus’ spread.
“The Health District relies on complete and timely reporting from medical providers who order testing for COVID-19 to identify and track cases successfully,” said Dr. Michael Johnson, director of SNHD’s community health division. “We also rely on the cooperation of our community members to help identify people who may have been exposed, and they are integral to our success.”
They acknowledge some people may prefer getting phone calls instead of an alert, but they said speeding up the process is vital.
“I think it can be alarming to receive a message from someone you don’t know. We really are trying to do our best to make this as fast and easy and convenient as possible,” Kraushaar said.”