It has come to the Health Department’s attention that many businesses in Franklin County are requiring their employees to have a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 test in order to confirm a COVID-19 diagnosis. This was a best practice throughout the pandemic up until this point. However, with the unfortunate high positivity rate in our community, along with the backlog of pending tests at the State lab, as well as the limited test supplies available, Dr. Bud Ransom – Public Health Official asks that you allow an at-home test diagnosis. These rapid tests have become much more accurate in the last 18 months.
Please note: A negative test should NOT be required for employees to return to work. Employees must follow guidelines and fulfill their isolation period before returning. Quarantine/Isolation guidance is below. Pdf links can be found here for each document:
COVID-19 Isolation/Quarantine Guidelines
COVID-19 Guidance for Household Contacts
If you have questions or concerns, please email Kaci Brady kbrady@franklincoks.org. We appreciate your help as we continue to work through this unprecedented time.
Thank you!
