News Detail
Alumni on the Frontlines of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Katie Howe '10, Prevention Program Manager
Quick update about your life after VA
After VA I went to the University of Rochester for my B.A. in Epidemiology. I graduated from the University of Rochester in 2014, and then went on to Tulane University for my Master's in Public Health in Epidemiology and graduated in 2016. In May of 2016, I moved to Rhode Island to join the Rhode Island Department of Health, and have been here for almost 4 years.
What is your official job/title?
My official job title is the Prevention Program Manager for the Center for HIV, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Epidemiology at the Rhode Island Department of Health.
How has the job changed and/or shifted during the pandemic?
As part of the Division of Infectious Disease at the Rhode Island Department of Health, we have shifted to an "all hands on deck" operation expanding our hours of operation, working nights and weekends, with a strong emphasis on contact tracing.
We are working hard to contact all cases of COVID-19 to identify people who may have been exposed. Contact tracing has proven to be instrumental in stopping the spread of COVID-19, as we are ensuring that exposed individuals who may be carriers of the virus remain at home to protect their communities.
How can VA alumni and the greater VA community help you and other healthcare professionals?
STAY HOME! You've heard this many times, but this is the best thing you can do to prevent spread in your communities. The virus does not move, we move the virus, so the more we are staying home the better!
If you want to do more, I recommend reaching out to organizations like your local medical reserve corps (they have non-medical opportunities too), a local food pantry (as demand has started to increase), or contact local social service organizations (such as United Way) to see how you can assist.
Vermont Academy is a coed college preparatory boarding and day school in southern Vermont, serving grades 9-12 plus a postgraduate year.
