December 3, 2020
Dear City Employees:
San Francisco is experiencing a significant surge in infections – nearing 16,000 COVID-19 cases and the City is now assigned to the State’s most restrictive reopening tier. We have confirmed more cases in the past seven-days than at any other time during the pandemic.
To keep our colleagues, families, and communities safe we must recommit to the safety practices that will help slow the spread of COVID-19 both at work and at home:
Check for COVID-19 symptoms: Complete a daily health assessment each day before coming to work . The symptoms include: fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or more, shivering or chills, cough, trouble breathing or shortness of breath, tiredness or fatigue, muscle or body aches, loss of sense of smell or taste, headache, sore throat, persistent runny nose (not from allergies), diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. Any new symptoms need to be taken seriously. Do not come to work if you are sick.
Be aware of Close Contacts: You are a “Close Contact” if you have been closer than 6 feet to a COVID-19 positive individual for more than 15 minutes within a 24-hour period, whether or not you were wearing a mask. The means that you have been exposed to COVID-19 and that you must quarantine to protect others. Close contacts include intimate partners and household members.
Avoid gathering with individuals outside of your household: To prevent becoming a close contact of a COVID- positive individual or unknowingly spreading the virus because you are COVID-positive but do not know it, do not gather with people outside of your home. Be mindful of gatherings that may have happened over the Thanksgiving holiday, especially if it included mixing with individuals who traveled from far away. This situation significantly raises the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching your face and mouth.
Keep your distance: Maintain at least 6 feet of distance from your colleagues in the workplace or the public at all times where possible .
Wear a face covering: Face coverings are required at all times in the workplace and in public, except when eating or drinking. Eat alone or at least 6 feet away from others.
Get a flu shot: While getting a flu vaccine will not protect you against COVID-19, the symptoms of the flu have major overlap with symptoms of COVID-19. Getting the flu vaccine will reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death. The flu vaccine can also save healthcare resources for the care of patients with COVID-19. Free flu shots are available through your healthcare provider .
We all have a role to play. Please reach out to your HR representative or your supervisor if you have questions related to your health and safety.
Thank you for all you do to keep each other safe in the workplace and at home.
Sincerely,
Carol Isen
Human Resources Director (Acting)