Guidance for return-to-work during isolation:
You may allow a person to return to work after day 5 of their isolation period (where day zero is defined as either date of symptom onset if symptomatic or date of collection of the first positive test if asymptomatic) if they meet all the following criteria:
- The individual is fully vaccinated (e.g., completed one dose of Janssen or two doses of an mRNA vaccine at least two weeks before the day they become symptomatic or, if asymptomatic, the day of collection of the first positive specimen).
- The individual is asymptomatic, or, if they had mild symptoms when they return to work, they must:
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- Not have a fever for at least 72 hours without fever-reducing medication.
- Have a resolution of symptoms or, if still with residual symptoms, then all are improving.
- Not have rhinorrhea (runny nose).
- Have no more than minimal, non-productive cough (i.e., not disruptive to work and does not stop the person from wearing their mask continuously, not coughing up phlegm).
- The individual is able to consistently and correctly wear a well-fitting face mask, a higher level mask such as a KN95, or a fit-tested N95 respirator while at work. The mask should fit with no air gaps around the edges.
- Individuals who are moderate to severely immunocompromised are not eligible to return to work under this guidance.
Click Here for the DOH December 24, 2021 notice | Advisory on Shortening Isolation Period for Certain Fully Vaccinated Healthcare Workers
