Memo from the County Manager: Travel & COVID-19

Mark Schwartz Message Header

March 4, 2020

To: All County Employees


In consultation with Dr. Varghese, our Public Health Director, and other senior staff, I am requiring that all staff returning from travel to/through one of the countries that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has identified as high risk for COVID-19 must stay at home for 14 days before returning to work. 

 

This is to ensure the safety of our staff who are here in the county and working daily in our community, as well as those staff who have returned from travel to these countries.  Even if staff show no signs of COVID-19, we are requiring them to stay home for 14 calendar days or until we lift the requirement, should that be sooner. 

 

What does this mean for staff returning from travel? 

  1. Check in with your supervisor before and after travel.  Provide your supervisor with updated contact information. 
  2. If you are able to telework, you are required to do so, including checking and responding to email and voicemail.  You should also expect a call from your supervisor periodically. 
  3. Time should be recorded as telework if you are able, or regular hours if you are not. 
  4. Check in with primary care doctor or other medical professional should you feel ill at any time.  Call prior to visiting the office or facility to inform them of your symptoms and your recent travel so they are better prepared to treat you.   
  5. Avoid contact with others if you feel ill. 
  6. Follow public health updates on  County website for more information. 

 

How can you protect yourself and your family? 

  1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available. 
  2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible. 
  3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve (not hands) when coughing or sneezing. 
  4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 

 

I understand that this may be a stressful time for all of our staff, and I would encourage you to contact our Employee Assistance staff at any time at 703-228-8720.  As we obtain more information about this virus and this quarantine requirement, we will be sure to share it with you.  In the meantime, please stay in contact with us. 

 

Sincerely, 

Mark J. Schwartz

County Manager