Due to horrible timing I have a problem at work. I have developed a persistent cough following strep throat. Now I have my coworkers looking and talking differently to me, I have my boss at first asking then telling me to go to the hospital to get checked for Corona virus He threatened to involve HR if I don't get tested and let him know. I know why I have this cough. My partner went through the exact same symptoms before giving it to me. Can my job demand testing for Corona Virus at a hospital? I should tell you that getting tested is not an issue for me. I have no problem with that but I'm not going to do it at a hospital or clinic where many other people that probably could be sick for real with the virus have to go thus getting infected myself. I also have an issue with my Job overstepping boundaries . I am afraid that people will complain and I will get fired maybe not for this reason specifically but maybe they will find a good reason to fire me to calm people down at. How can I protect myself in case this happens. What can I be doing now if anything to help the options I'd have if I'm fired. I work at warehouse that is still open despite safer at home order for my city
Generally speaking, an employer is permitted to ask you to seek medical attention and get tested for COVID-19. The CDC states that employees who exhibit symptoms of influenza-like illness at work during a pandemic should leave the workplace. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) confirmed that advising workers to go home is permissible and not considered disability-related if the symptoms present are akin to the COVID-19 coronavirus or the flu. Moreover, if you are an at-will employee who is paid hourly, it is difficult for you to find any specific way to secure your job as you can get fired at any time for anything as long as it is not discriminatory, which this does not appear to be. If you are fired, there are unemployment benefits available to you pursuant to new legislation passed over the last two weeks. Take care of yourself. Goodluck.
