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Employee COVID-19 Reporting Protocol

HR Cougar Corner

Below is information on the protocol to follow if you test positive for COVID-19 or have risk contact/close contact with someone who tests positive or has symptoms. If you have:

1. Been in high risk contact with someone who is testing or is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms*.
Do not come to work. Contact HR. As directed by Stephenson County Health Department (SCHD)/local health department or healthcare provider, seek testing. Telecommute if possible. If no telecommuting work, use paid time off as appropriate.

2. Been in high risk with someone who has tested positive.
Do not come to work. Contact HR. As directed by SCHD/local health department or healthcare provider, seek testing. Telecommute if possible. Once testing is in process, use Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) benefits and then other paid time off as appropriate. Under FFCRA there is emergency paid sick leave available if an employee is unable to work, or telecommute, because they are taking affirmative steps to obtain a medical diagnosis (i.e. waiting for, or attending, an appointment for a test or awaiting results). If FFCRA benefits apply, Human Resources will enter time off as appropriate.

3. Tested Positive.
Do not come to work. Contact HR. Telecommute if possible. Use FFCRA benefits and then other paid time off as appropriate. Up to two weeks of paid emergency sick leave is available to employees if they are unable to work or telecommute. HR will enter time off as appropriate. Return to work once cleared by SCHD/local health department or healthcare provider.

*High risk and COVID-19 symptoms are defined by the CDC and local health departments.

Please contact Karen Brown or Christie Lewis if you have questions