Employee News Re: Updated COVID-19 Quarantine Guidelines
Jan. 3, 2022 -- From Raissa L. Walker, Director of Personnel
Self-Isolation Guidelines
In accordance with the updated guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and recommendations provided by the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH), the County of Mercer is implementing the following changes to the COVID-19 Policy as it relates to self-isolation for COVID-positive employees:
Employees who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to self-isolate for five (5) days and may return to work, with a doctor’s note, as long as they are asymptomatic. Employees will be required to wear their mask at all times for five (5) days following their return.
The change will take effect as of the date of this memorandum. Employees who tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the date of this memorandum will be required to complete their 10-day isolation period per the previous guidelines.
Employee Booster Cards
Mercer County, in coordination with local and state public health officials, is currently reviewing the updated quarantine recommendations provided by the CDC. These changes may affect vaccinated employees depending on how much time has lapsed since their last dose. In anticipation of these changes, we are asking employees who have received their booster shot to provide the Office of Personnel with a copy of their vaccination card by Friday, Jan.14, 2022.
Cards may be submitted through the portal by visiting https://www.mercercounty.org/departments/personnel/employee-covid-19-information or via e-mail to personnel@mercercounty.org.
COVID Leave
As a reminder, employees who test positive for COVID-19 or who have been exposed to a COVID positive individual must notify their supervisor and contact the Office of Personnel immediately. Since the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (EPSLA), which provided paid leave for individuals affected by COVID-19, expired December 31, 2020, employees have been required to charge all COVID-related leaves against their time balances.
Employee Testing
Unvaccinated employees are still required to submit for weekly testing in accordance with the 2021 Enhanced COVID-19 Protocols. Due to an influx in COVID-19 cases and number of tests being administered throughout the state, results may take up to three (3) business days to be viewed. Furthermore, the Office of Personnel will by phone only reach to those employees who test positive for COVID-19.
Results may be viewed by visiting https://atlanticdiagnosticlaboratories.com/ and clicking “COVID Patient Results." Once there, click on “Create a New Account” and follow the prompts.
We appreciate your patience as we navigate through these challenging times. Our office is always available to answer any questions employees may have and to address any concerns. Please feel free to reach out to us at (609) 989-6800 or (609) 989-6676. Thank you.
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