Comments on COVID-19, illness and attendance at work

Employees who are experiencing illness should take steps to care for themselves including following guidance from their healthcare provider. For employees who have tested positive for COVID-19, Bates follows the current CDC guidance; specifically, employees should isolate for 5 days, and wear a mask for the following 5 days. We will not be conducting contact tracing for covid or any influenza-like illnesses, and notification to close contacts is not required. For employees who have not tested positive for any specific illness, including an influenza-like-illness, good judgment should dictate work attendance and any involvement in your community. We encourage employees to follow the CDC guidelines on staying home when sick. The CDC also has helpful references regarding the differences between the flu and COVID-19, and between the flu and colds.

The CDC reminds us that “the single best way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough, and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like flu.” (Healthy Habits to Help Protect Against Flu | CDC)