COVID-19 FAQ: Return to Work for SHA Health Care Workers (HCW) after Symptoms, Self-Isolation, and/or COVID-19 Testing
I have been told that I have to self-isolate for 14 days – can I come back to work sooner if I test negative for COVID-19?
If you have a recent travel history (out of country) .You need to self- isolate and self-monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days from the date of your return. NO
If you have been named a close contact by OHS or PPH to an individual with confirmed COVID19. You need to self-isolate and self-monitor for symptoms from your last exposure date. NO
If you were tested too soon (less than 48 hours after your symptoms started), you need to self-isolate as directed, and be retested. Premature testing may result in a false negative test result. NO
If you were tested 48 hours after your symptoms started then, you can return to work if you have had no symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, runny nose, sore throat or nasal congestion) for 48 hours. YES
My spouse is self-isolating but doesn't have symptoms. I also don't have any symptoms. Do I need to self-isolate?
If you have not been previously instructed to self-isolate (e.g. due to travel history or being contacted by PPH/OHS advising you are a close contact to a positive COVID19 case) AND your household contact has no symptoms, and you have no symptoms, then you do not need to self-isolate and can continue to work as usual.
My spouse is self-isolating and has symptoms compatible with COVID-19, but, I don't have symptoms. Do I need to self-isolate?
If your spouse is a confirmed COVID-19 case, and you have been named as close contact to your spouse by OHS/PPH. YES
If your spouse has not been deemed a confirmed COVID-19 case. NO
I have symptoms of illness. My Manager recently told me that I should stay home until my symptoms resolve, but I feel fine. Is it safe for me to come in to work?
If your symptoms are consistent with COVID19, call OHS Hotline 1-833-233-4403 and arrange for testing. NO
If you are acutely ill unrelated to COVID 19, stay home. You may return to work 48 hours after your symptoms have resolved. NO
I have tested positive for COVID-19. When can I return to work?
If you were tested 48 hours after your symptoms started, you can return to work if you now have had no symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, runny nose, sore throat or nasal congestion) for 48 hours AND you have completed your 14 day self-isolation as required based on exposure (or date of diagnosis if date of exposure unknown). YES
There may be individual exceptional cases where 2 negative COVID-19 test results are required prior to return to work. Medical Heath Officer (MHO) consult required.
If unclear and further guidance required consult MHO.
The most up-to-date information on clinical guidance will always be first updated on the
clinical guidance page and supersedes any document.