Placer health update: Negative test 'unnecessary' for return to work for those who had COVID 19

With the increased demand in COVID-19 testing, Placer County Health Officer Dr. Aimee Sisson is asking employers to not require employees who have been sick with the virus to provide a negative test result to return to work. In a letter sent to Placer County employers July 16, Sisson said a negative test requirement "is unnecessary and is an inappropriate use of limited testing resources." Sisson also noted tests should be "reserved for diagnosing new infections." Although supplies are limited, Sisson confirmed in an email with the Auburn Journal on Monday the county is not experiencing a shortage of testing supplies. "(The county) had been pushing for several months and we had been saying … go get tested regardless just so that you can provide a baseline and be sure," Auburn Mayor Daniel Berlant said during the Meddlers meeting Tuesday. "Well, now those that really need a test can't get an appointment." Berlant also said the county will encourage those who are symptomatic and at risk to seek testing. The county encouraged everyone to get tested to ensure enough tests were being conducted so testing sites were not pulled, District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson said during the Meddlers meeting. Initially, guidance encouraged two tests for individuals. Now that test supplies are limited, Sisson confirmed the guidance has been updated. "Since testing is not readily available right now, we are allowing exposed persons to return to work after 14 days of quarantine without a negative test but requiring them to wear a disposable, medical-grade face mask at all times in the workplace for 10 days after their return," Sisson said. According to Sisson, individuals who have COVID-19 symptoms following a known exposure should "isolate for 10 days from (the) onset of symptoms, 24 hours without a fever and improving symptoms" after testing positive. Individuals with symptoms and no known exposure who test positive should follow the same quarantine guidelines. Individuals with symptoms who test negative "can return to work 72 hours after symptoms resolve unless there is an outbreak of multiple cases in the workplace."