A statement from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) about coronavirus (COVID-19). Recommendation on testing and work restriction for health and aged care workers Context The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), on the advice of the Communicable Diseases Network Australia (CDNA), considered the threshold for COVID-19 testing of healthcare* workers (HCW) who provide care to patients or residents – including aged and primary care workers –and any restrictions related to the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
HCW with direct contact with patients are more likely to be exposed to COVID-19. Early detection of COVID-19 in HCW is an important protective mechanism for the higher risk population that may