Return to Work Criteria for HCP After COVID-19

Test-based strategy-  Exclude from work until: Resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and Improvement in respiratory symptoms (eg, cough, shortness of breath), and Negative results of an FDA EUA- authorized molecular assay for COVID-19 from at least 2 consecutive nasopharyngeal swab specimens collected ≥24 hours apart (total of 2 negative specimens.)

Non-test-based strategy- Exclude from work until: At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (eg, cough, shortness of breath); and, At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

Return-to-Work Practices and Work Restrictions

Best practices for HCPs after returning to work: Wear a facemask at all times while in the healthcare facility until all symptoms are completely resolved or until 14 days after illness onset, whichever is longer. Be restricted from contact with severely immunocompromised patients (eg, hematology-oncology, transplant) until14 days after illness onset.

Best practices for HCPs after returning to work: Adhere to hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene, and cough etiquette in CDC’s interim infection control guidance (eg, cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, dispose of tissues in waste receptacles). Self-monitor for symptoms, and seek re-evaluation from occupational health if respiratory symptoms recur or worsen.

Crisis Strategies to Mitigate Staffing Shortages

Healthcare systems, healthcare facilities, and the appropriate state, local, territorial, and/or tribal health authorities might determine that the recommended approaches cannot be followed due to the need to mitigate HCP staffing shortages.