As a COVID-19 continues to be a concern, employers are looking for ways to prevent an outbreak in the workplace. Many have found that offering voluntary testing can be a great way to keep their staff safe. Some might even see it as an employee benefit, as it can give them peace of mind. Here are a few additional reasons why managers may want to consider incorporating a voluntary COVID-19 testing option into the workplace.
May Reduce Asymptomatic Spread
Many people who get COVID don’t have symptoms of the virus, meaning employees can unknowingly spread it to others in the workplace. The Journal of the American Medical Association published an article, “SARS-CoV-2 Transmission From People Without COVID-19 Symptoms,” investigating the proportion of asymptomatic individuals contributing to the transmission of COVID-19. The study found that over half of COVID-19 cases came from people who do not have symptoms.
By offering regular, voluntary COVID-19 testing to their employees regardless of whether or not they are symptomatic, employers can identify active COVID-19 infections take steps to protect their workers.
Can Identify Breakthrough Cases
It’s rare for a vaccine to offer 100% immunity from a specific disease. Most vaccines, like the current COVID-19 vaccines approved and authorized in the US, offer effective immunity, meaning a person has protection from severe illness and death but can still be infected.
Although they effectively reduce the risk of infection, a fully vaccinated employee can still get the virus. Fully vaccinated workers can also be exposed to the virus shortly after receiving the vaccine, meaning their body hasn’t had enough time to build immunity.
Additionally, immunity from vaccines fades over time. People who were vaccinated months ago may not be as protected against COVID. And as new variants emerge, experts become more uncertain how effective the vaccines will be against them.
Giving employees to test for COVID may help identify breakthrough cases early, reducing the spread of the virus.
Looking to Offer COVID Testing to Your Employees?
Metriks offers COVID-19 testing services to businesses of all sizes. Whether you are looking to test employees weekly or as needed, we have an option for you. Contact us today to learn more.
