Return-to-work guidance for healthcare personnel with acute viral respiratory infections
- tadsooter
- Oct 16
- 1 min read
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recently published interim return-to-work guidance for healthcare personnel on their COVID-19 Infection Prevention in Healthcare Settings page. A helpful FAQ resource on the new guidance has also been published.
Key updates include:
Applies to acute viral respiratory infections (COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and others).
Replaces test-based approaches with a symptom-based strategy.
Allows return to work after ≥3 days if symptoms are improving and the individual has been fever-free for 24 hours without medication and feels well enough to work.
Source control through day 10 after symptom onset or positive test.
Incorporates additional precautions to consider for high-risk units and immunocompromised personnel.
Note for Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs): LTCFs should consult with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to determine whether this guidance may be adopted in their facilities or if continued adherence to full CDC PPE guidance is required.
If you have questions about this guidance, please contact gcdresponse@kitsapppublichealth.org.
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