DOE has received confirmation that this week, two employees based at the Forrestal building have tested positive for COVID-19
April 24, 2020
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Dear Colleagues,
The Department of Energy (DOE) has received confirmation that this week, two employees based at the Forrestal building have tested positive for COVID-19. The employee(s) have been away from the building since 3/14 and 3/27. Both employees have subsequently recovered while in self-quarantine.
DOE has notified employees who worked in close proximity to these individuals and has deep cleaned their immediate and surrounding work areas.
At the same time, I’m pleased to note that one of the previously reported confirmed employees at Headquarters has been cleared.
Your health and safety remains our number one priority, and we encourage you to continue to closely follow the guidance of both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Office of Personnel Management (OPM), maximizing telework and practicing “social distancing” during this time.
We also encourage you to stay centered and positive during this period of maximum telework. Remember to keep a structure to your day, take needed breaks, eat a healthy diet, exercise, stay connected with your coworkers, friends and neighbors, and show acts of kindness to those in need.
One way you can help those in need is by donating through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). OPM, in coordination with the White House COVID-19 Task Force, has opened a special CFC solicitation using the CFC online donation portal until June 30, 2020. Last year’s dollars pledged are already providing critical support to victims of COVID-19; this is another opportunity to donate whether or not you participated previously. You can visit the CFC online donation portal to donate, or view the OPM memorandum for additional information.
As we navigate through this difficult time, you may want to consider discussing your concerns with a trained Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselor to assist in relieving loneliness, fear, and stress. Federal employees at DOE Headquarters can contact the Department’s EAP Specialist at (202) 586-4995. Federal employees outside of the DC area may contact Espȳr at (877) 801-5752 to speak to a counselor. DOE Federal employees may access the Espȳr website for COVID-19 pandemic resources on telework, coping, parenting supports, older adult and caregiver support, and more.
I appreciate all you are doing for our nation during these challenging times, and know we will get through them together.
Be well and stay safe.
Dan Brouillette
Secretary of Energy