Which group may benefit from a counselor's disclosure of contagious disease information?

Identifiable third parties at risk may benefit from a counselor's disclosure of contagious disease information because it is crucial for their health and safety. When a counselor is aware that a contagious disease poses a risk to a specific group of individuals, they have an ethical obligation to disclose that information in a manner that protects those at risk while still maintaining confidentiality as much as possible. This disclosure allows those individuals to take appropriate precautions to protect their health, such as seeking medical advice or treatment.

In situations involving communicable diseases, the duty to protect third parties is recognized, aligning with public health principles. This helps prevent the spread of disease and supports community health efforts. Counselors must navigate these ethical dilemmas carefully, balancing the need for confidentiality with the potential harm that could come from non-disclosure to those who are identifiable and at risk.