Heading back to your workplace soon? Here are some tips from the National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for staying safe during COVID-19. Always be sure to check the latest CDC and local guidelines.
Get vaccinated. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine will help protect you and your co-workers. You are considered fully vaccinated either two weeks after your second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines, or two weeks after your single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Follow workplace-specific guidelines. Be prepared and ask about your organization's COVID-19 requirements before returning to work. Some workplaces and businesses may still require things like masks or other face coverings even for fully vaccinated people.
Rethink meetings. Conduct meetings via phone, video chat, or email when you can. When in-person meetings are necessary, they should be held in open, well-ventilated spaces.
Keep your hands clean. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, particularly after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, and using the restroom.
Watch what you touch. It's always important to follow health best practices at work. So, continue to avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. In addition, avoid sharing work equipment, such as phones and desks, unnecessarily. Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces.
Follow the latest travel regulations. If you're traveling internationally for work, make sure to pay close attention to the COVID-19 requirements of the country you're visiting.
Advocate for what you need. If you are at increased risk for severe illness, or you care for or live with someone who is, ask your manager for special accommodations that will allow you to do your job safely.
Stay home if you're sick. If you're not feeling well, stay home. If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, monitor your symptoms, self-isolate, and follow CDC-recommended steps.
Mind your mental health. Practice stress relief when you feel anxiety building. Take deep breaths, exercise, or do something that helps keep you calm. Take advantage of community health resources or support services offered by your employer.
