When you have an illness that's contagious, it is always important to keep your distance from people who could potentially catch the virus from you. During the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, this exact concern is what led to many people being encouraged (and even mandated in some areas) to socially distance themselves from other people to avoid the spread of illness.

If you have been diagnosed with a contagious illness that would put others at risk, being stranded on the highway can put you in a precarious situation. Even after calling a towing service, you will have to maintain your distance from others. 

Don't roll down your window for anyone who stops. 

If someone stops to help you because they see you are stranded, make sure you don't rill down your window to speak to them. If you must, type out a message on your phone and show them the text through the window that explains why you can't interact with them. Or, if you have a piece of paper and a pen, jot down a message to let them know the situation. 

Avoid getting out of your vehicle to see what's wrong. 

If you are stranded and get out of the vehicle to peer under the hood, under the car, or otherwise try to decide what is going on, it entices do-gooders to stop and help. If you're sick and contagious, this is not a silent invitation you should send. Go ahead and stay inside your vehicle to avoid unwanted stops and necessary interaction with others. Keep in mind that it can be much safer to stay in your vehicle on a busy highway anyway, so you will be protecting yourself and others just by sitting and waiting. 

Let the towing service know you need to maintain your distance. 

When you do call the towing service for help, make sure you let them know that you are sick and contagious and will have to maintain your distance when they arrive to help you. You will likely have to make your own arrangements for transportation from the site. However, this will let the auto towing services provider know that they will not be able to speak with you face to face without maintaining their distance. Furthermore, the driver can wear personal protective gear like gloves and a mask when they are preparing your vehicle to be towed, as this can involve reaching in the vehicle.