COVID-19 update

COVID-19 cases are increasing in our region and here in Carlsbad. To help keep everyone healthy, please follow all protocols and policies currently in place. Keep in mind, workplace rules are set by Cal/OSHA and may be stricter than those that apply to the general public.

All of the current rules and health guidance are linked below. Here are some specific reminders:

IF YOU HAVE POSSIBLE SYMPTOMS

If you have any symptoms that could possibly be COVID-19 related, please don’t come into work until you know for sure. What you think is a normal headache, fatigue or allergies could be a sign of COVID-19 infection.

IF YOUR HOME TEST IS NEGATIVE

Be aware that at-home tests, while acceptable, are less sensitive than PCR tests and may not always detect a COVID-19 infection. Even if you have a negative result on an at-home test, please do not come to work if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms as the negative result may not be accurate. PCR tests are considered more accurate for diagnosing COVID-19 infection.

IF SOMEONE IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD HAS COVID-19

Be especially cautious if someone in your household has COVID-19 or if you have any other reason to believe you could have been exposed.

IF YOU’VE POTENTIALLY BEEN EXPOSED AT WORK

If you are believed to have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19, HR will contact you directly to discuss recommended testing and precautions.

IF YOU’RE CONSIDERED A CLOSE CONTACT

You do not need to quarantine unless you are symptomatic. You must wear a mask around others for 10 days after exposure. Continue to monitor yourself for symptoms and test three to five days after initial exposure.

MASKS

Wearing a mask around others may also be required if the number of COVID-19 cases at your worksite exceeds specified Cal/OSHA thresholds. When this occurs, employees who report to work at that location must wear masks around others until case numbers drop below the thresholds.

VIRTUAL AND DISTANCED MEETINGS

Hold virtual meetings when possible. If meeting in person is needed, consider meeting outdoors or in a well-ventilated space and maintaining six feet of distance.

COVID-19 staff page and other resources

· COVID-19 flow chart – what to do in a variety of COVID-19 situations

· Staff Q&A – if you have additional questions, please email HRmailbox@carlsbadca.gov

· COVID-19 intake form – to be filled out if you tested positive or were exposed

Thank you for doing your part to keep workplace exposures to a minimum.