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Coronavirus: What You Need to Know

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Coronavirus News & Updates

Update March 23: Enforcement Options for Persons Who Intentionally or Negligently Cause or Promote the Spread of Covid-19

Upate March 19: TWO WORK LOCATIONS HAVE HAD POSITIVE TESTS FOR CORONAVIRUS:

  • T-108 MANHATTAN TOW POUND: Pier 76 38th Street & 12th Avenue, NY, NY 10018
  • T-109 (NIC): 30-30 Thompson Avenue, Long Island City, N.Y. 11101

As soon as the City became aware of the positive cases, both locations were thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.

If any supervisor feels they were in contact with anyone from the job or someone outside of the department who tested positive for COVID-19, call the NYPD MEDICAL line (718) 760-7600.

PLEASE CHECK BACK REGULARLY FOR UPDATES.

Update March 19A message from CWA National President Chris Shelton on the COVID-19 Pandemic

Updated Guidance for City Agencies on Leave Policy During the COVID-19 Outbreak

This is a very difficult time, with everyone concerned about the constantly changing situation regarding COVID-19, and worried about your and your family's health and well-being. We have been in regular communication with the City to discuss COVID-19 related protocols and policies. 

If you think a work situation is unsafe, let your supervisor know and reach out to the Local at 646-552-4070. 

Coronavirus Signs & Symptoms

If you test positive for the COVID-19, let your supervisor know and reach out to the Local at 646-552-4070.Below is information on what to do if you feel sick, when to seek medical attention, how to identify symptoms of COVID-19 vs other illnesses, and how to protect yourself and your family as much as possible.Know the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and what to do if symptomatic:
  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Call your health care provider’s office in advance of a visit
  • Limit movement in the community
  • Limit visitors

Watch for symptoms

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
Call your doctor:  If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Source: Center for Disease Control and Protection

CWA's Health and Safety department has established a process for locals to report on what protections employers have put in place, as well as for members to report any incidents of exposure or infection. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms consistent with infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately and follow reporting procedures established by your employer. Also notify Local 1181 as soon as possible. 

Protocols at Your Workplace

Local health and safety committees are sharing information with members on protocols for avoiding infection at their workplaces. CWA is in constant communication with our members' employers at this time to ensure that our workplaces are safe and workers are protected. We’re reviewing the latest State and Federal legistation on paid sick leave related to COVID-19 quarantine and illness, and analyzing the impact that it’ll have on our members.

If You Think Your Working Conditions Put You at Risk

If you have concerns about the risks you face in the workplace, you should consult with your steward or a Local officer for advice. Click here for more information on your rights if you are concerned about COVID-19 exposure.

Questions

Because conditions vary across the country and are changing constantly, your Local leadership will have the most up-to-date information on policies in place at your work location to address the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have a question, please contact Local 1181 at 646-552-4070.

Other Resources

These resources provide more information on how to protect yourself from coronavirus infection, what to do if you are sick, and how to address the risk of infection in your workplace: