What principle guides consent in field epidemiology when participants are vulnerable or in crisis?

• A. Coerce participation
• B. Honor autonomy and obtain informed consent when feasible and protect privacy
• C. Privacy not required
• D. Alternatives not available

Answer: (B)

Consent in field epidemiology hinges on respecting individuals’ autonomy and protecting their privacy, especially for vulnerable or crisis-affected participants. When feasible, the person should be given clear information about the purpose, procedures, potential risks and benefits, and their rights, including the right to decline or withdraw, so they can make a voluntary, informed decision. At the same time, safeguarding privacy is essential: limit data collection to what’s necessary, store information securely, and share results in de-identified or aggregated form to prevent harm or stigma. In urgent situations where a participant cannot provide consent, protections still apply and consent may be sought from a legally authorized representative when appropriate, but the guiding principle remains to honor autonomy and minimize risk by upholding privacy.