“In public health, we’re in a position to make an impact on outcomes for people and to stop the spread of the virus. It’s an empowering feeling to know our role and its positive influence.”

“I’m a public health nurse. During COVID-19, I did contact tracing. This work is detailed and urgent. When someone tests positive, we call them to ask questions about symptoms and their whereabouts during the time they could have been contagious. We monitor cases and contacts daily to ensure progression of the virus is getting better and equip people with what to do if it isn’t. It can be very emotional. Reassuring clients and helping them feel supported is key. Balancing contact tracing volumes and regular services was a challenge. We now do contact tracing through a centralized hub. I also do overdose crisis work. Outreach now has to be done differently but we are finding solutions. I meet community partners by phone and we are creative with how we provide harm reduction supplies and support concerns. I supported a long-term care facility during an outbreak of COVID-19. Acting quickly to keep people safe was critical. The partnership with our team, our medical health officers and the facility made it possible to get them safely out of the outbreak. Through challenges, our team has found ways to work differently, adapt to changing guidelines and maintain core essential services so people continue to get the care they need. In public health, we’re in a position to make an impact on outcomes for people and to stop the spread of the virus. It’s an empowering feeling to know our role and its positive influence.”