Juan Aranda has been a helper from the beginning. He started working for a non-profit out of college where he collaborated with county public health staff on HIV/STD testing, which convinced him he wanted to work in public health. Nursing allows him to combine both interests.
He worked for ten years as a registered nurse in San Francisco hospitals before joining the Lab two years ago. He also worked for Marin County Public Health prior to nursing school which gives him valuable insight into the coronavirus pandemic.
“One of the important roles in public health is investigating infectious disease cases, tracing those who might have been exposed, and contacting them,” said Juan. “The work today with the pandemic is no different for those in public health.”
Juan is in Building 26 with others from Health Services, providing services to employees on site. “We are essential personnel, and so are the approximately 150 employees from groups such as Facilities and IT who are the Lab to make sure the rest of the employees can work at home and to ensure the Lab stays in a safe and stable condition.”
Juan said Lab employees who are teleworking play an important role in keeping everyone else healthy. “Be cautious using social media for your information. If you are looking for credible information start with the Centers for Disease Control website.”
And spoken like a true helper, Juan concluded with advice, “Take time to take care of yourself. This is a good opportunity to develop better health habits. Go for a walk. Eat healthily. Don’t binge on the net or on the news. Get sleep.”
Health Services can be reached at 510-486-6266. Always call before you come because health services employees are following strict guidelines. To enter the building you must be wearing a face cover, use the provided hand sanitizer, and answer some basic health questions.