When can I return to my clinical rotations after experiencing symptoms of a viral respiratory illness?

Health care workers (HCWs) have a responsibility to their patients and colleagues to refrain from working when ill with symptoms that are likely attributable to a viral respiratory illness (VRI).¹

The recommended duration of exclusion may change based on the causative agent, patient population, severity of illness, and provincial requirements. For instance, longer exclusions may be considered for HCWs caring for highly immunocompromised patients (e.g., transplant patients). Consult with your supervisor and follow site-specific return-to-work procedures based on specific circumstances.

All HCWs with suspected or confirmed viral respiratory illness (including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV) must follow these guidelines:

• Stay home when sick. Return to work when:
  • There is resolution of fever (if fever was present) that occurs for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication; and
  • Symptoms improve and you feel well enough to work.
• Upon returning to work, all HCWs must do the following:
  • Wear a medical mask until day 10 from onset of VRI symptoms/illness or test date (if asymptomatic), even if asymptomatic/symptoms have resolved;
  • Respect personal space; and,
  • Continue to follow hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene and other workplace IPC measures.
• Consult with your program & supervisor if caring for particularly vulnerable or immunocompromised patients as they may wish for you to follow additional precautions.

I’m immunocompromised, are the rules still the same?  

I am still experiencing a residual dry cough (or other symptoms), can I return?  

Can I return to work earlier than recommended?  

For complete information, visit the Provincial Guidance on Return to Work and Exposure Management for Health Care Workers with Viral Respiratory Illness – Updated October 20, 2023