Unsung Heroes: Oklahoma's Epidemiologists Fight COVID-19
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic brought them into the spotlight, epidemiologists, or 'epis', have been dedicated to protecting public health. These unsung heroes work tirelessly to prevent diseases and minimize their harmful effects. Nowhere is this more evident than in Oklahoma, where the Oklahoma Area Tribal Epidemiology Center (OKTEC) has been instrumental in combating the COVID-19 pandemic among American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Epidemiologists like those at OKTEC, led by Director Tracy Prather, MHA, focus on prevention and education. They attend community events, teach educational presentations, and conduct case investigations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they studied the disease's incidence and prevalence, conducted contact tracing, and provided crucial technical assistance and data analysis to tribes across Oklahoma. Their work is a continuation of the legacy left by famous epidemiologists such as John Snow, Louis Pasteur, Joseph Lister, and Robert Koch, who pioneered disease prevention methods.
In Oklahoma, epidemiologists concentrate on reportable diseases, particularly those that are easily spread or affect the gastrointestinal system. Through thorough investigations, they determine possible exposures, provide educational resources, and study data to prevent disease spread. Their influence extends beyond Oklahoma, shaping disease prevention best practices in both the government and private sectors.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vital role epidemiologists play in keeping communities safe and healthy. The dedicated team at OKTEC, under the leadership of Director Tracy Prather, exemplifies this commitment. Their work, from case investigations to community health promotion, has been pivotal in protecting Oklahoma's tribal communities during the pandemic. As we look towards a post-pandemic world, the importance of these 'disease detectives' remains clear.
