Many of you have likely heard news reports recently about isolated incidents and outbreaks of monkeypox. We want to maintain a safe workplace and encourage a proactive approach to keeping our teams, patients, and residents safe.
At this time, no additional actions, like testing, are required. We are providing helpful information on the illness and best practices at preventing the spread.
HOW IS MONKEYPOX SPREAD?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Monkeypox is spread through:
- Direct contact with an infectious rash, scabs or body fluids.
- Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact or during intimate physical contact.
- Touching objects or fabrics (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the rash or body fluids of someone with monkeypox.
- Being scratched or bitten by an animal infected with the virus.
- Monkeypox can be acquired by all people, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
- Monkeypox causes a distinct rash and other symptoms, such as fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue.
- Monkeypox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. This can take several weeks.
PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF MONKEYPOX
Like protocols we have implemented during the pandemic, we ask all employees to cooperate and take extra care to reduce the likelihood of transmission of monkeypox in the workplace:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Wash your hands frequently or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid close physical contact in the workplace when able.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Continue to wear masks and shields while at work.
If you are diagnosed with monkeypox, the CDC recommends that employees remain at home until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed. Normal paid-time-off and leave policies and procedures will apply to employees who are unable to work due to exposure or infection with the monkeypox virus.
Please contact hr@infinityrehab.com with any questions or concerns.
