Return-to-Work Guidance for Respiratory Viral Illnesses

If you have a suspected or confirmed respiratory viral infection, you must remain out of work until all of the following criteria are met:

• At least three days have passed since symptoms began (or since the first positive test if no symptoms develop).
• You have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medications.
• Your symptoms are improving.
• You feel well enough to return to work.

Upon returning to work, you must wear a mask through at least the end of day seven, with the day symptoms began (or the first positive test for asymptomatic employees) counted as day zero. If you are unable to wear a mask, you need to remain out of work until at least day eight and meet all return-to-work criteria.

If you have been exposed to a respiratory virus but have no symptoms, you do not need to stay home from work. However, you must wear a mask beginning on the first day of exposure through at least five days after your last exposure and monitor for symptoms during that period.

Masks must cover the nose and mouth whenever you are around others. Breaks, including eating and drinking, should be taken away from other people.

Employee Health clearance is required before returning to work following a respiratory viral infection. You must be evaluated by Employee Health and receive a written release. An Employee Health nurse may provide clearance based on the return-to-work criteria without requiring a note from the your healthcare provider.

Thank you for following the appropriate precautions to help maintain a safe environment for everyone.

For questions, contact Employee Health at 540-981-7206.

Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Viral Respiratory Infections. https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/healthcare-personnel-epidemiology- control/viral-respiratory-infections.html