-
FAQ - How do I contact HR and report COVID exposure, COVID-like symptoms or a COVID positive test result?
All employees should immediately notify their supervisor, campus nurse and HR for guidance and complete the following HR form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBhSsQIUd-z8saVpOVolZKL280W5l0Q-uFJFbsxw0WF6G8HA/viewform
-
FAQ - What if my doctor tells me that I need to self-quarantine?
If your doctor tells you to self-quarantine, please contact HR so that we can gather your documentation and review your options with you. Contact HR at HRCOVID@hayscisd.net
-
FAQ – Do I have to quarantine if I get COVID-19 and I am vaccinated?
Yes, you can still spread the virus to others.
“Staying home when sick with COVID-19 is essential to keep COVID-19 infections out of schools and prevent spread to others. It also is essential for people who are not fully vaccinated to quarantine after a recent exposure to someone with COVID-19."
-
FAQ - Can I contract COVID-19 from surface contamination?
The virus is believed to mainly be spread from person to person through close contact. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
For more information visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/clean-disinfect/index.html
-
FAQ - What is the difference between ʺexposureʺ and ʺclose contactʺ?
You may be exposed to COVID-19 through casual encounters while wearing your PPE (personal protective equipment). However, ʺclose contactʺ means that you have been exposed to a COVID POSITIVE person, within six feet, for a total time of 15 minutes in 24 hours, regardless of mask usage. This type of exposure can raise your chances of contracting COVID-19.
-
FAQ - Should I wear a mask?
The district strongly encourages that everyone wears a mask to protect each other from the spread of COVID-19. The district will adhere to the guidelines established by the most current mandates and orders that are in place by the State of Texas and the Texas Education Agency.
-
FAQ - How do I protect myself and others from COVID-19?
The virus is thought to mainly spread from person to person through close contact (within 6 feet) with an infected person. The spread occurs when an infected person coughs or sneezes and the respiratory droplets land in another person’s mouth, nose, or eyes who is in close contact. Monitor yourself for symptoms on a daily basis. Wash your hands frequently (soap and water for at least 20 seconds). Avoid close contact with those who are sick in your home and Social Distance (6’ or greater) when outside your home. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth covering or mask if you are around others. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with the crook of your elbow. Clean and disinfect the frequently touched surfaces regularly. The COVID vaccines are highly effective at preventing infection with COVID-19.
-
FAQ - Why can't you tell me who tested positive in my department/campus?
HIPPA law prohibits any sharing of personal health data. Please feel free to follow the link below for more information on HIPPA and what it does for you, then contact HR for any additional information.
For more information visit https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/index.html
-
FAQ - Will I be notified by the district if someone I work with has symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19?
The district follows CDC and health department guidelines for notification based on level of exposure. The guidelines we have in place are to minimize the risk of spreading the virus. If you are believed to be at risk, you will be notified and provided with instructions on the quarantine process. If you experience symptoms - self-isolate, contact your medical provider and contact Hays CISD Human Resources at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBhSsQIUd-z8saVpOVolZKL280W5l0Q-uFJFbsxw0WF6G8HA/viewform
-
FAQ - While I'm waiting for my results, do I use my own leave time?
There are several scenarios that will determine your leave options and whether or not you may continue working while awaiting COVID test results. Variables may include: testing because you have a family member with positive results, you have symptoms, or you are testing for precautionary reasons. For more information contact Hays CISD Human Resources at: HRCOVID@hayscisd.net
-
FAQ - How long will it take to get my results from testing?
Each test result will vary depending on where it was taken and to which lab it was sent for results. Our contacts at the Department of Health estimate that it can take between 24 hours and five days.
-
FAQ - Where can I get tested for COVID-19 in Hays County?
For information about testing sites visit:
https://hayscountytx.com/covid-19-testing-sites-in-hays-by-appointment-only/
-
FAQ - When do I need to be tested for COVID-19?
Contact your medical provider or the Hays County hotline for instructions at 512-393-5525 for questions about testing. Testing is generally only recommended for those with one or more significant symptoms or two or more other symptoms or who have had close contact with someone with a known positive COVID-19 test in the last 14 days.
Significant Symptoms
(1 or more)
- Loss of Sense of Taste or Smell
- Fever
- Difficulty Breathing/Shortness of Breath
- Severe Cough
- Vomiting
Other symptoms
(2 or more)
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- Fatigue
- Muscle/Body Aches
- Sweating excessively
- Chills/Shaking
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Congestion or Runny Nose
-
FAQ - What should I expect from HR once I speak to them?
After receiving your report, you will receive a district email and/or phone call from HR with further instructions. HR will ask a series of questions to help determine the district's course of action and they will explain different options that you may be eligible for while off of work.
-
FAQ - Why do I need to contact HR?
HR Benefits and Leave Office will handle leave questions and also facilitate information to your campus while keeping your personal data confidential.
-
FAQ - What do I do if someone in my family tested positive for COVID-19?
- If you live with this person and cannot effectively isolate yourself from them in your home you should not come to work.
- Obtain a note from the physician regarding self-quarantine guidelines until results are returned.
- Immediately contact Hays CISD Employee Services: HRCOVID@hayscisd.net
-
FAQ - What do I do if I believe I have symptoms?
Isolate yourself from others and stay home. Contact your primary care provider/health department and contact Hays CISD Employee Services: HRCOVID@hayscisd.net
-
FAQ - Can I have COVID-19 and not experience any symptoms?
Yes - this is called “asymptomatic” disease. You can still spread the virus to others which is why we encourage all employees to cover their nose and mouth with a mask when around others at work.
-
FAQ - Will I have all the symptoms?
You may experience some or all of the published symptoms. Every person is different.
-
FAQ - When should I self-monitor for symptoms?
You are required to self-monitor every day before you come to work. The district provides documentation to each employee regarding COVID-19 symptoms and obtains an acknowledgement. It is imperative that each employee monitor their symptoms and not come to work if they are ill to aid in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Visit the ʺSelf-Checkerʺ on the CDC website:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
-
FAQ - When do symptoms of COVID-19 appear?
According to the CDC, symptoms may appear from 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. For additional information visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
-
FAQ - What are the common symptoms of COVID-19?
Most people who get COVID-19 will have mild to moderate symptoms similar to cold and flu-like symptoms and are able to recover at home with fluids and rest.
Symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chills, Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Loss of taste or smell
- Diarrhea
- Fever, greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
- ***If you have allergies or headaches regularly, please note you are looking for a change in symptoms.
-
FAQ – Can I get COVID-19 if I have received the vaccination?
Yes – no vaccine is 100% effective. These are “breakthrough” cases, but they are rare and the vaccine will keep you from getting seriously ill.
-
FAQ – Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine now?
Effective May 12, 2021, everyone 12 years of age and older is now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
-
FAQ - Does the district require employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
The district does not require any employee, student or volunteer to be vaccinated but strongly encourages those who are unvaccinated to wear a mask for protection of themselves and others.
-
FAQ - Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?
COVID-19 vaccines were developed using science that has been around for decades. COVID-19 vaccines are not experimental. They went through all the required stages of clinical trials. Extensive testing and monitoring have shown that these vaccines are safe and effective. COVID-19 vaccines have received and continue to undergo the most intensive safety monitoring in US history. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html