If you think you have contracted COVID-19 at work, get a PCR test
AUPE is aware that Dr. Deena Hinshaw, the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) has encouraged Albertans to use rapid antigen tests over the more accurate and officially recorded polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, while those in high priority settings such as health care should still get a PCR test.
With a limited supply of Rapid Test kits available and reports from across the province that they are not available at all, we think this move is short-sighted and may prove to have devastating effects.
Your Union understands the province’s desire to preserve PCR testing capacity but are concerned that members’ failure to obtain a PCR test result – particularly if they suspect they contracted COVID-19 at work – could present problems accessing Long Term Disability Insurance (LTDI) or Workers Compensation Benefits (WCB) if necessary.
Some people who have had COVID-19, whether they require hospitalization or not, continue to experience symptoms, including fatigue, respiratory and neurological symptoms. These long-lasting symptoms, referred to as “long COVID” can last for months or more than a year. Many of these people continue to suffer long after the government’s system has marked them “recovered” two weeks after their initial diagnosis.
For your own protection and peace of mind, we strongly encourage members to pursue a PCR test, especially if you think you’ve contracted COVID-19 at work.
We understand the government has concerns about preserving PCR resources; we don’t think that you should carry the burden of the government’s decisions by gambling with your future.
If you have any questions about this advisory, please contact the Members Resource Centre at 1-800-232-7284 and they will put you in touch with your Membership Services Officer.
Stay safe and take care of yourselves. And if you get ill at work, please get tested.