C4/5 @ 15, 31 yrs post, Network Engineer past 20yrs I've been very fortunate to have been working from home since this whole thing started. They also have all sorts of guidelines in effect. The big rub is that the required guidelines present barriers to the workplace preventing me from being able to physically be present. I cannot put on/remove a face mask or thoroughly clean my hands and desk reliably.
Anyway, on to your situation: 1. They are following distancing guidelines >> > Ask any Dr 'distancing' only helps if you're the one that's sick. If so, you shouldn't be out anyways. (true regardless of illness; cold, flu, etc) 2. My states case numbers are steady and relatively low / low positive rate >> > Do your own research on this, but too many sources are cropping up that show the states are not calculating and/or reporting the stats properly (check out <start at 13:40> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFnUGSr3fw0 Good mask wearking facts too) 3. I take public transportation there >> > Probably at the same risk as before COVID. Public transportation is a natural petri dish. 4. My work does not require much face to face work with the public- desk >> job. >> > Can you justify working from home? 5. All guidance on SCI shows that we are at higher risk >> > SCI are at higher risk from any 'breathing affecting' illness. Bad colds, Flu (Corona virus btw), COVID, etc. The risk of becoming infected is NOT greater, just the effects IF infected. 6. Very little actual outcome based results on COVID and SCI. Only a single >> case study >> > *My opinion:* I think it is the immune compromised who are experiencing the severe effects of COVID. I believe that if you are generally healthy with a good immune system, then getting COVID is similar to getting a bad cold or flu. Both of which I've had numerous times. I do take several immune boosting vitamins as a preventative measure and am aware of those around me exhibiting signs of illness. 7. I live in a place where community transmission has been active for a >> while and may have had it asymptomatically already. >> > Me too! 8. I'm typically pretty healthy (besides UTI, occasional skin breakdown) >> > Me too! 9. One of my caregivers has emphysema >> > This one's tough because your circle is their circle and vice versa. I assume they go to the store, get stuff for home, maybe a restaurant? If so, that's no different from you going to/from work. Both of you being conscientious of each other in your interactions. My attendant and family do that for me too. 10. I'm not impacted economically either way >> > I like to see fellow SCI working when and if they can. Get back on the horse as soon as you are set for care. 11. If I do come down with it mildly symptomatic, it may be difficult to >> get my caregivers to show up. I would likely need to be hospitalized due to >> lack of care- even with mild symptoms. >> > Have the conversation w/ your caregiver(s). Make a plan, because the hospital is the last place you want to be. I think you in a mask and them with gloves, mask, and washing/purelling religiously would be safe enough. (consult your Dr on this) 12. I'm getting bored staying home >> > I too have binged everything Prime, Netflix, Hulu, and Youtube have to offer. Want to zoom or Skype sometimes just hit me up! 13. Due to lack of human connection while isolating, I could see myself >> taking part in - or may have already taken part in activities that could be >> more risky than work. >> > Like "I bet I can use those stairs going down if I just go fast enough" or "Can I eat just one Lays chip". No, seriously the odds are you have and will do things that everybody is ram-rodding into our heads as dangerous. We face danger every day (if we're living life). I still go places and enjoy the outdoors. My family goes to the lake every weekend. (mask-free) 13. I think staying out too long may affect my reputation as a reliable >> useful employee. >> > Stay in constant contact with your manager. Make certain they are being very candid with you. Express your concerns. >
