Business

Coronavirus and business: What the CDC wants you to know

As the coronavirus continues to spread in Central Florida and the rest of the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is providing guidance to employers and small businesses.

Here’s what you should know:

Actively encourage sick employees to stay home

Those who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness should stay at home until they are free of a fever or any other symptoms without the use of fever reducers or symptom-altering medication, the CDC recommends. And, make sure your sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance.

Don’t require a doctor’s note for those out sick either, the CDC says.

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Separate sick employees

Those who appear to have acute respiratory illness symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath should be separated and sent home immediately, according to the CDC.

Emphasize staying home when sick, respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene

The CDC said employers should put posters up that encourage staying home and proper cough and sneeze etiquette and hand hygiene. Also, provide tissues and no-touch disposal trashcans.

Perform routine environmental cleaning

Routinely clean all surfaces that are frequently touched such as workstations, countertops and doorknobs, and use cleaning agents, and provide disposable wipes.

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Advise employees before traveling to take certain steps

Employers and employees should check the latest guidance and recommendations for each country they plan to visit, and look at specific information for travelers found on the CDC website.

Employers should also check themselves for symptoms of acute respiratory illness before starting travel, and notify their supervisor and call a health care provider if they become sick.


Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.