Contact tracer class available online through Kishwaukee College

MALTA – Kishwaukee College Workforce and Community Education will offer an online contact tracer class Nov. 1-14.

Contact tracers are skilled, public health professionals who provide information regarding isolation/quarantine, testing and public health resources. They work with individuals who have been diagnosed, or exposed, to highly communicable diseases, and have been used frequently during the COVID-19 pandemic to help mitigate community spread of the viral respiratory disease.

The cost of the program is $50.

Contact tracers are trained to communicate respectfully and empathetically. In addition, they are trained to adhere to strict confidentiality and ethical standards and to use technology to collect required information. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their communication skills during the class.

Individuals trained as contact tracers are in high demand in both the public and private sector, especially if bilingual. The average pay rate is $20 an hour.

For more information on community education and short-term training at Kishwaukee College or to register, visit kish.edu/ce or contact Melissa Gallagher, coordinator of short-term training and continuing education, at mgallagher1@kish.edu or 815-825-9466.