November 24, 2020
Less than a minute read
State of Missouri issues public health warning
The State of Missouri has issued a Public Health Warning regarding COVID-19, which includes an advisory for businesses.
The warning states that Missouri officials continue to take a balanced approach, but if Missourians do not slow the spread of the virus, we risk having our health care systems overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients.
“We do not need to lockdown our communities if people do the right things to fight the spread of the virus,” the warning reads.
The advice for businesses reads as follows.
All businesses are advised to implement basic infection prevention measures informed by industry best practices:
- Modify physical workspaces to maximize and maintain social distancing.
- Develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan, including policies and procedures for workforce contact tracing when an employee tests positive for COVID-19.
- Monitor workforce for indicative symptoms. Symptomatic people should not physically return to work until cleared by a medical provider.
- Develop, implement, and communicate about workplace flexibilities and protections, including:
- Encouraging telework whenever possible and feasible with business operations;
- Working in phases and/or split shifts, if possible;
- Limiting access to common areas where personnel are likely to congregate and interact; and
- Ensuring that sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance.