Challenges in Contact Tracing and Sampling in Three Districts of Western Rajasthan during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

ntroduction : Contact tracing commenced in districts of Western Rajasthan in March 2020 to control
the spread of Covid -19.It was an ongoing process involving isolation and sampling of contacts. Multi
department Quick and Rapid response teams (Q/RRT) worked continuously as the pandemic passed
through different stages. The objectives of the study was to compare the challenges faced during contact
tracing and document good practices in place.
Methods: A cross –sectional study was done among contact tracers using a semi structured questionnaire
in Google forms in three districts of Pali, Jodhpur and Barmer. Keeping power of study at 80%, 5%
error and 95% confidence interval, assuming 50% prevalence of effective contact tracing and 10 % nonresponse total 400 , i.e 133 participants from each district.
Results: Major challenges faced by tracers were resistance to contact sampling (64%)lack of training
(49%), and random sampling workload (47%). Overall 36% of contacts had downloaded the Aarogya
setu app but among them only 68% were using the app. Trainings , workload distribution and intersectoral coordination was best in Jodhpur, Barmer and Pali respectively .
Conclusions: Trainings helped in better field management of resistance to sampling among contacts.
Excessive workload of lab technicians lead to errors in reporting. Transport for sampling of contacts
was a challenge in remote areas. The Aarogya setu app was not used by all contacts. Regular feedback
meetings by local administration helped in effective contact tracing