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Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Pinellas County Human Resources continues to provide updates regarding COVID-19 to ensure employees are informed.

News

  • Free At-Home Tests – Every household is eligible to order 4 free at-home tests.
  • Vaccines – The CDC recommends the updated vaccines to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.
  • Test Expiration Dates – Check the FDA website to see if your COVID-19 tests’ expiration dates have been extended.

Resources

FAQs

What protective strategies should I use regarding COVID-19?

We encourage employees to take preventive measures such as staying home when sick, practicing good personal hygiene, following CDC guidelines for pandemic safety, and staying updated on the latest recommendations.

Are employees required to wear masks?

No. Face coverings/masks are not mandated in County government buildings. Employees are expected to continue following the CDC guidelines for pandemic safety.

Are employees required to get vaccinated?

No. Pinellas County does not require COVID vaccination.

Where can I get vaccinated?

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

Go to a local testing site or purchase an at-home test from your local pharmacy. See At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests. You can use your Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to cover test kits.

What COVID services are covered by Cigna?

For those on the County’s medical plan, Cigna covers COVID-19 vaccines, diagnostic testing, and FDA-approved antivirals and therapeutics treatment. Your regular copays, coinsurance and deductible will apply. At-home test kits are not covered.

Will my absence due to COVID-19 or flu be considered scheduled?

Please discuss absences and how to code your time sheet with your supervisor. As always, please refer to applicable CDC recommendations and guidelines.

What if I think I might have COVID-19?

Stay up to date with symptoms associated with COVID-19. If you develop symptoms such as fever, a cough, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms recognized by the CDC, consult with a healthcare provider who can determine if you need to be tested. Here are your options:

  • Contact Cigna’s NurseLine 24/7 by calling (800) 862-3557, option 8.
  • Talk with a Virtual Visit doctor by phone or video 24/7 at MDLive by calling (800) 862-3557, option 5.
  • Get tested.
  • If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and choose to not get tested, it is important to stay home. Find out what to do if you are sick.

What if I have COVID-19?

Follow CDC guidelines.

What are my options for leave time due to COVID (paid and unpaid)?

  • Paid leave including annual leave, floating holidays and personal days.
  • A Friend in Need (AFIN) – See Policy #12. This is a voluntary program through which an eligible employee may choose to assist eligible fellow employees in times of need by permitting person-to-person leave donation as defined within the policy.
  • Administrative leave with pay – See Personnel Rule 4 which provides Appointing Authorities the ability to grant administrative leave with pay if such leave is in the best interests of the organization.
  • Leave without pay – See Personnel Rule 4 which provides the option of leave without pay after all forms of accumulated or gained leave have been exhausted (with noted exceptions).

Are employees eligible for Short Term Disability benefits related to COVID?

An employee with COVID may be eligible. Contact UnitedHealthcare at (866) 556-8298 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. M-F, or by email.

Are employees eligible for FMLA due to COVID?

FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for employees or their immediate family member for a covered illness. If an employee is taking care of a dependent with COVID, they may be eligible for FMLA. Contact UnitedHealthcare at (866) 556-8298 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. M-F, or by email.

10/25/24