COVID-19 & Respiratory Viruses FAQs
As of 2024, the CDC has updated its COVID-19 and Respiratory Viruses isolation guidelines for the workplace. Below are the updated guidelines, for any questions or concerns please email hr@stcl.edu
When can I return to work after testing positive for COVID-19?
You can return to work when you meet BOTH of these conditions for at least 24 hours:
- Your symptoms are improving overall
- You have not had a fever (and are NOT using fever-reducing medication)
What do I do if I tested positive for a respiratory virus, but never had symptoms?
You may be contagious, for the next 5 days take added precautions:
- Ensure good ventilation in enclosed areas and shared spaces (air purifiers)
- Maintain good hygiene practices
- Wear a well-fitted mask
- Practice safe distancing
Precautions After Returning to Work:
For the next 5 days take these precautions:
- Ensure good ventilation in enclosed areas and shared spaces (air purifiers)
- Maintain good hygiene practices
- Wear a well-fitted mask
- Practice safe distancing
Stay Alert
Keep in mind that you may still be able to spread the virus that made you sick, even if you are feeling better.
- If you get a fever or feel worse after returning, stay home again until your symptoms improve AND you have been fever-free for 24 hours without medication
- Then follow the 5-day precautionary measures again
Notifying the Human Resources Team:
- Please notify your Supervisor and email hr@stcl.edu on the date you test positive
- Employees may be eligible to work from home with the consent of their supervisor
- Employees may also use any available sick leave time if they do not feel well enough to work, or when remote work does not meet the needs of the position
- Employees can enter their sick leave time through their employee dashboard under the Employee Self Service section in Stanley
