In the case of a contagious disease suspected in a college student, what is the physician's obligation?

• A. Isolate the patient and alert appropriate public health authorities.
• B. Respect privacy and do nothing.
• C. Quarantine without notifying authorities.
• D. Only treat and do not inform anyone.

Answer: (B)

When a contagious disease is suspected in a student, the priority is protecting the community by taking steps to limit transmission. The physician has a duty to both isolate the patient to reduce spread and to report the case to the appropriate public health authorities. This reporting lets health officials track outbreaks, perform contact tracing, and implement necessary control measures. Privacy and confidentiality are important, but in these situations, mandatory reporting is typically permitted or required by law and ethics to safeguard others. So the best approach is to take action that prevents further transmission by isolating the patient and informing public health authorities, while continuing to care for the patient and communicate about the reporting process.