Understanding COVID-19 testing
COVID-19 testing can be confusing. This is a guide to help you understand the types of COVID-19 testing, as well as when and how employees should be tested.
Types of COVID-19 tests
There are two types of testing available to help determine if you have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
1. Diagnostic Test
To determine if you are currently infected with the coronavirus
Also Known As : Viral Test, Molecular Test, PCR test, Rapid Antigen Testing, Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT), RT-PCR test, LAMP Test
2. Serological Test
To determine whether or not you were previously infected with the coronavirus
Also Known As : Antibody Test, Blood Test, Serology Test
Q&A about COVID-19 testing in the workplace
You may have questions about how COVID-19 testing will affect your business, and what the VA DOLI requires. Here are links to sources and reference material that have answers to common questions about testing in the workplace.
Do my employees have to get tested before they can return to work?
Where can my employees get testing?
What should an employee do if they are awaiting diagnostic test results?
What do I do if one of my employees receives a positive diagnostic test result?
- The new DOLI standards (16VAC25-220-40 (Section B8)) require that you establish a system to document employee cases and inform relevant parties.
- COVID-19 case reports must be filed through the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) online reporting portal. By using this portal, these case reports will ensure VDH and DOLI reporting compliance.
- Depending on how you received the information about the test results, HIPAA may apply.
- Depending on whether or not the employee is suspected to have contracted the coronavirus in the workplace, VOSH/OSHA may apply.
- An employee who tests positive should follow this guide.
Is there a symptom checker to help check for COVID-19?
- Yes! Both VCU Health and the state offer an online symptom checker.