kontaktopsporing

Kontaktopsporing is a public health practice used to identify and manage people who have been exposed to an infectious disease, with the aim of interrupting transmission. It typically combines case investigation, contact identification, risk assessment, and ongoing monitoring, followed by notification and guidance on testing, isolation, or quarantine.

After a confirmed case is identified, health professionals conduct interviews to reconstruct the person's recent close contacts and environments. Contacts are classified by exposure risk and informed about the need for testing or quarantine. The process may include providing support and follow-up to monitor symptoms and ensure compliance, and it ends when the risk of further transmission is diminished.

Digital tools such as proximity-tracing apps have been used to augment traditional methods. These apps use anonymized data and Bluetooth or GPS signals to alert users who have been near an infected person. Data protection considerations are central, with approaches ranging from centralized databases to decentralized models that minimize data collection and retention.

Effectiveness depends on rapid case detection, quick notification of contacts, and public compliance. Limitations include delays in testing, incomplete recall of contacts, asymptomatic transmission, and varying adoption of digital tools or privacy concerns that reduce participation.

Legislation and ethics govern Kontaktopsporing, emphasizing data minimization, purpose limitation, and retention controls in line with privacy laws and standards. The practice is typically carried out by national or regional public health authorities and is complemented by community engagement and clear guidance for individuals.