COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Who needs to be tested? 
  • Anyone who is presenting symptoms such as fever, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, headache and body aches and pains. 
  • Anyone who has had DIRECT contact with someone who tested positive and is exhibiting symptoms. Direct contact means touching the person, breathing within 6 ft of an infected person who is talking, coughing, or sneezing. (This is why social distancing, masks, hand washing and hand sanitation is so important). 
  • Anyone whose healthcare provider recommends testing. Be aware testing too soon can product false negative results. 
If I have to be tested, what should I do? 
  • Contact me immediately to let me know you have been tested. We will work out a plan for you. Your plan will be determined based on your level of exposure. In most cases, you are still allowed to come to work, wearing a mask, and practicing social distancing. There will be some instances where you will need to self quarantine. Each is on a case by case basis. 
If I have a family member or friend who is being tested for COVID because they were exposed to someone who tested positive, do I need to be tested? 
  • No, you don't have to be tested if you were in contact with someone else who is being tested. You may get tested if you have symptoms or for peace of mind. Be aware of testing too soon as this may give you a false negative result. 
  • Yes, if your friend or family member tests positive, then you may want to get tested. Or if you are presenting symptoms of COVID, get tested. 
For example: If John is around Sam who is getting a COVID test because Sam has COVID symptoms, then John needs a test. If John is around Sam who is getting a COVID test but has no symptoms, John can continue to come to work and function as normal until he hears from Sam's results. If Sam is negative for COVID, everything continues as normal. If Sam is positive, then John needs to have a test and self quarantine until he hears from his own personal results. 

If I am being tested for COVID, who besides my employer should I tell? 
  • This is based on a case by case basis and should be discussed with your healthcare provider who will guide you on who to notify. 
What can I do to stop the spread of COVID? 
  • Pray for protection 
  • Stay 6 ft away from others 
  • Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer throughout the day 
  • Avoid touching your mouth, eyes, and nose 
  • Wear a mask

What are the guidelines recommended by the Alabama Department of Health and the CDC for returning to work f I have been exposed or have had COVID?

  • Someone who has had COVID-19, whether they got tested or not, should stay home and away from others until they meet the following criteria: As of July 2, 2020, CDC guidelines state that if you think or know someone has had COVID-19, they can be with others only after they’ve been fever-free, without medication, for three days (72 hours)  AND their respiratory symptoms have improved (this includes coughing or shortness of breath) AND it has been 10 days since their symptoms first appeared. The CDC also states that people who have been around someone with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 should stay home for 14 days after that exposure.
If you all have any other questions, please let me know. This is new territory for us all, and we are following CDC guidelines and our healthcare provider's advice every step of the way.