Julie Kutchi stands in front of the OHS COVID-19 asymptomatic testing clinic.
We are all trying our best to lower our chances of contracting COVID-19, but certain circumstances still place us at risk. Occupational Health Services (OHS) has been serving the NCI at Frederick and Frederick National Laboratory community by answering questions about the coronavirus and offering guidance on how to handle specific situations, like being exposed to the virus, living with someone who is sick, or traveling from another state or country. Here is some information that can help you make the right choices to keep you and your coworkers safe.
At times, you may be asked to self-quarantine—to stay home from work and not leave your house for a certain amount of time. This means that someone you have recently been around has tested positive for COVID-19. If you have spent more than 10 minutes less than six feet from that affected person or if either or both of you weren’t wearing a mask, you may be at risk for developing COVID-19.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, even if you do not have symptoms, you will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days. This means not only not going to work but remaining isolated from all other people, including people living in the same home. This can be very difficult, but you should try to secure separate sleeping accommodations and a separate bathroom if possible. When this is not possible, try to clean the bathroom between persons and wear a mask in the home when around other people.
Traveling during a pandemic can be challenging. If possible, it’s best to delay travel until later. However, if that’s not practical, there are several things to consider before traveling. Risks can be diminished by driving in a motor vehicle instead of using public transportation, such as a train or bus. Flying may increase risk. Mask use varies in different areas of the country, but you should always wear a mask when in public.
Employees who decide to travel will be asked to quarantine for 14 days upon their return, if their destination had a greater than 10 percent positivity rate for COVID-19 during their stay. You should call OHS when you return so you can be evaluated by phone for the need to quarantine. You are also welcome to call for guidance prior to travel.
OHS has made asymptomatic COVID-19 testing available to all employees with a NED number. This is an opportunity for employees to be tested in an easy and safe environment. Results are usually returned within two to three days in the employee’s “My Health” account. Book testing through the clinical center testing system using a Chrome browser.
If you have any symptoms or are concerned about an exposure to COVID-19, please call OHS at 301-846-1096.
Julie Kutchi is a nurse practitioner in OHS, where she sees patients with occupational-related injuries and illnesses. OHS is responsible for overseeing employees’ health and welfare while they are at work. Patients are seen at OHS for preplacement evaluations, annual exams, respirator fit exams, hearing evaluations, and vaccinations. OHS also assists employees prior to international travel.