You may have received and read a plethora of information from various sources regarding the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, over the last several weeks. In light of the communication from system and university leaders, we would like to provide some guidance on how to proceed throughout this rapidly evolving situation.
Employees choosing to travel in the upcoming weeks should follow the recommendations set forth in the U of I System message on new policies related to COVID-19 and may be subject to self-quarantine upon return to work. For employees who do travel, who may have been exposed to COVID-19, or who are experiencing symptoms, the following guidelines apply regarding leave (individual circumstances will be reviewed on a case by case basis). Normal call-in and leave approval procedures must be followed.
- Employee who has traveled to a CDC COVID-19 Level 2 or 3 location:
- Employee may be instructed to self-quarantine at an off campus location for 14 days, with pay. The 14 day period begins the first day the employee is no longer in a Level 2 or 3 location. Employees are required to follow the guidelines at their respective university or system office.
- If the employee becomes ill during the self-quarantine, regular Sick Leave must be used.
- Employees in self-quarantine may have remote working options, depending on the position, and with supervisor approval.
- Other situations that may require self-quarantine will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
- Employee who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms:
- Employee should contact their medical provider for guidance.
- Employee should use available Sick Leave and remain at home when ill.
- Additional options may include: FMLA, Leave Without Pay, and Special Leave.
- Employee is not ill but choosing not to report to work due to concerns about exposure:
- Employee should use available Vacation Leave upon approval from supervisor.
- Unexcused, unpaid leave may apply if not approved.
As the impact of this virus unfolds, employees will be alerted to any additional precautions or changes in procedure. To protect your health and prevent illness, please follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.
Questions may be directed to your system or university human resources offices.
Sincerely,
Jami Painter, Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, System Offices
Elyne Cole, Senior Associate Chancellor for Human Resources, Urbana-Champaign
Michael Ginsburg, Associate Chancellor for Human Resources, Chicago
Melissa Mlynski, Senior Director of Human Resources, Springfield
