COVID-19 Exposures
Updated September 22, 2022
These scenarios regarding employee exposure and testing were developed in partnership with the Health Emergency Response Office (HERO) and Boynton Health and are intended to provide guidance for HR Leads, campus and unit HR staff, as well as supervisors.
For the latest guidance on exposure, testing, and isolation from the CDC, visit:
- What to Do If You Were Exposed to COVID-19
- When to Get Tested for COVID-19
- Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19
Scenario 1: An employee was exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19
Employees who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 should use the following precautions:
- Wear a high quality mask or respirator (e.g. N95 or KN95)
- Watch for symptoms of COVID 19. If symptoms develop, begin isolating immediately and follow the guidance in Scenario 2.
- Get tested at least 5 full days after exposure or as soon as possible if they don’t know when they had close contact.
- If the test is positive, see Scenario 3
- If the test is negative, continue to wear the mask and follow recommendations from CDC for What to do if you were exposed to COVID-19.
Supervisor’s Role
- Follow University rules regarding potential leaves, including Emergency Paid Leave.
Unit HR Role
- Advise supervisor and/or employee as needed, regarding potential leave entitlements, including Emergency Paid Leave.
Scenario 2: An employee has symptoms of COVID-19
Regardless of vaccination status, employees should isolate themselves if they have COVID 19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, headache, muscle pain, congestion, runny nose, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea).
Recommendations for employees:
- Get tested as soon as possible.
- Isolate until test results are available, then act accordingly (scenario 3).
- Wear a well fitting mask when isolating and around other people at home.
Supervisor’s Role
- Follow University rules regarding potential leaves, including Emergency Paid Leave.
Unit HR Role
- Advise supervisor and/or employee regarding potential leave entitlements, including Emergency Paid Leave.
Scenario 3: An employee is COVID-19 positive
Following a positive test for COVID 19, employees should stay home for at least 5 days and follow CDC guidelines for isolation
Supervisor’s Role
- Consult with unit HR on leaves options, including Emergency Paid Leave.
Unit HR Role
- Advise supervisor and/or employee regarding potential leave entitlements, including Emergency Paid Leave
Twin Cities Campus: Supervisors with concerns about multiple or increased employee reports of positive COVID tests should call the Boynton Public Health at 612-626-5520 to review their concerns and determine if enhanced mitigation strategies are needed.