The following is intended as a plain-language summary of rules and recommendations for mitigation of COVID-19 and does not replace the need to follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

For all instances where PA state guidance differs from the Health Department, follow the guidance which is most restrictive.

Protections needed

Masks

• Masking is no longer required by the Department for staff, patients, or visitors in older adult day centers and programs.
• Masking is at the discretion of the agency or institution in accordance with its infection control policies and practices. See the latest CDC recommendations.
• Masking is an important aspect of protection against infection. The Health Department advises that all operators of older adult day centers/programs develop and implement masking plans and guidance for staff based on the risk to certain patient populations as well as changes in COVID-19 and other respiratory virus activity in the community.
• No one should be prevented or prohibited from wearing a mask at any time.
• All staff in any location must continue to mask upon returning to work after a COVID-19 exposure or infection per CDC guidance.

Isolation and Masking

• Seniors who have COVID-19 or suspect they do or were exposed should follow CDC guidance for isolation and precautions for people with COVID-19.
  • If seniors who can mask are exposed to someone with COVID-19 and don’t develop symptoms, they should wear a mask for 10 days in all public places and at home.
  • Individuals who were exposed and do not develop symptoms should get tested at least 5 days after last close contact with someone with COVID-19. If their test is negative, they should continue to mask through day 10.
• Staff should follow CDC guidance for healthcare workers.
• Staff who have the following symptoms should not report to work or be prevented from remaining on site: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, or new loss of taste or smell.
• Employers may choose to use self-monitoring or in-person screening or both methods. For those who choose self-monitoring: supply employees with a short fact sheet to remind them of the symptoms of concern or post a sign stating that any employee entering the workplace certifies that they do not have symptoms of COVID-19, reinforcing the obligation to self-screen before entering the workplace.
• Have sick leave policies in place so that staff excluded from the center do not lose earnings.
• If staff develops COVID-19 infection or has a positive test, businesses and other organizations must take additional precautions to stop the virus from spreading further. Required precautions include calling the Health Department at (215) 685-5488 to report positive cases.

• Text COVIDPHL to 888-777 to receive updates to your phone.
• If you have questions, call the Department of Public Health at (215) 685-5488.