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�emoteworkbecame thenormin 2020 , butthe much-anticipated rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine is allowing more companies to reopen their office doors to employees on amoreregular basis in 2021 . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following recommendations formaintaining a healthy and safe work environment .
In general , the more closely youinteract with others and the longer that interaction , the higher the risk ofCOVID-19 spread . If youreturnto work , continue to protectyourself by practicingthe normal protocols , including wearing masks , maintaining six feet or more ofsocial distance , washing hands often , covering coughs and sneezesand cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces .
Also , avoid using other employees ’ phones , desks , offices or other work tools and equipment , when possible . If you cannot avoid using someone else ’ s workstation , clean and disinfect before and after use .
When possible , business owners should consider using flexibleworksites �e . g ., telework�and flexibleworkhours �e . g ., staggered shifts� to help establish policies and practicesfor social distancing �maintainingdistanceofapproximatelysix feet� between employees and others , especially if socialdistancing isrecommended by stateand local healthauthorities .
In addition to anymeasures your business may implement to reduce your risk �e . g ., installed barriers� , take additional steps to minimizethe numberof people you interact with . When possible , opt forvirtual meetings when more than a few people are required to attend .
If you are at increased risk forsevere illness , check with your employer to see if there are policies and practices inplace to reduceyour risk at work , liketelework or modified job responsibilities .
As always , monitor your health . Be alert for symptoms . Watch forfever , cough , shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19 . This is especially important if you are running essential errands , going into the office or workplace , and in settings where it may be difficult to keepaphysicaldistance of sixfeet .
Take your temperature if symptoms develop , but not within �0 minutes of exercising or after taking medications thatcould lower it , like acetaminophen . ( Centers forDisease Control and Prevention )
� SPRING 2021 | THE RECORD HEALTH QUARTERLY | PREPARED BY THE ADVERTISING DEPT .