Pasadena’s Health Dept. Doctor Discusses Coronavirus in Online Video

Dr. Matt Feaster, epidemiologist for the Pasadena Public Health Department, has posted a video online aimed at explaining how he and his colleagues are investigating COVID-19 cases. He stressed that everyone’s help is needed to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

An 11 year veteran of the city’s Public Health Department, Dr. Feaster explained that epidemiology is a wide-ranging area of medicine that is centered on searching for the root causes and determinants of disease.

“Epidemiologists evaluate diseases of all kinds, not just infectious diseases, though that is certainly the group that is getting most of the attention now,” Feaster said.

He noted that a main concern is the health of caregivers administering to patients who may be contagious.

“When a case is reported to us by a doctor or healthcare provider, laboratory, or a person themselves, we provide instructions to protect their health and others from this virus that includes instructing them on self-isolating and how long, and steps people can take to protect their loved ones,” he said.

As they investigate COVID-19 cases, epidemiologists typically ask for details about a patient’s symptoms, to help determine when they may have been potentially infectious to others. They also ask about the patient’s previous whereabouts and who they may have encountered.

“When we have that list, we will work to evaluate the person’s exposure and provide recommendations like quarantining, testing and treatment,” Feaster said during the video.

He stressed that compliance with on-going state-wide “Safer at Home” orders is essential. Many of the most recent cases the infected person did not stay home, did not wear a face covering, or spent time with others without practicing the recommended social distancing.

“We need to keep discouraging people who are ill from going to work, especially in areas where there may be prolonged community contact, like congregate living areas,” he said.

“If you are sick, stay home. Also, be mindful of your body. We are heading into allergy season so people will naturally have coughing or sneezing. That isn’t COVID. We ask the public to assess their health by looking for a fever or a change in health, like muscle aches and tiredness. If that is abnormal for you, stay home to protect everyone else.”

Anyone who suspects they may have the virus should register for the various community testing clinics, which are free of charge and widely available, Feaster said.

He also asks everyone’s help by following COVID-19 prevention measures.

“Wash your hands frequently. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Avoid touching your face, especially when in public,” Feaster said. “Wear a cloth face covering and please practice the Safer at Home order and avoid gathering with people other than those in your home,” the doctor said.