Rising COVID Cases in the US: Should You Still Go to Work?

With COVID cases rising again this summer, if you're feeling unwell, it's wise to work from home or take a sick day.

Even though it's been over four years since the pandemic began, a new surge in COVID cases is making many employees question when they should request to work from home again.

Since 2020, remote jobs have become increasingly rare as many businesses enforce strict return-to-office policies. Despite numerous statistics showing that remote work benefits most businesses, many CEOs continue to push for in-person attendance.

However, with COVID making a comeback this summer, working from home might be the best option for both you and your coworkers.

COVID Cases Surge in US This Summer

New data from the CDC shows a significant rise in COVID cases across the US, which could affect the summer of 2024.

The CDC reports that 44 states are seeing an increase in cases, with only one state experiencing a decline. This pattern is typical for this time of year.

"Summer is back, and we're about to have what we call the summer bump in COVID cases. We see an increase in the summer, a decrease in the fall, and then a more substantial rise in the winter," said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, to CBS News.

With most of the country facing a serious increase in COVID cases, it’s time to reconsider your work schedule.

Should You Work Remotely If You Have COVID?

With most states seeing a COVID surge, your symptoms might mean you're positive. It's a good idea to test yourself to be sure and avoid unnecessary worry.

If you test positive, you should work from home. Even though the pandemic has eased, preventing the spread of illness is still important. Plus, many jobs are just as efficient, if not more so, when done remotely. Your coworkers will appreciate it.

And if you're too sick to work effectively, remember that taking a sick day is always an option. That's what they're for.

Can Your Company Make You Come to Work If You Have COVID?

In the US, worker protections are weaker compared to other countries. For instance, there’s no federal law guaranteeing paid time off or parental leave. This raises the question: can employers force you to come to work if you have COVID?

Fortunately, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) include provisions that allow employees to refuse to work to avoid being infected.

“If the condition clearly presents a risk of death or serious physical harm, there is not sufficient time for OSHA to inspect, and, where possible, you have brought the condition to the attention of your employer, you may have a legal right to refuse to work in a situation in which you would be exposed to the hazard,” according to OSHA.

However, proving this isn't easy, and it doesn't protect you from possible retaliation like discipline or firing. The investigation process can be lengthy and complex, so if you have COVID, it’s best to hope for an understanding manager rather than facing a legal battle.

How to Start Working Remotely

If you're feeling under the weather and your boss won’t allow you to work from home, or if you're simply tired of the daily commute, there are steps you can take to start working remotely.

First, it might be a matter of how you’re asking. We’ve researched the best ways to approach your boss about working from home, including highlighting the benefits and proposing a trial period.

Additionally, you could explore new remote job opportunities. Although remote positions are becoming less common, there are still many available for motivated individuals, including at major companies like Google and Microsoft. Taking initiative is key to making this change.