As of this notice, 29 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) have been reported in New Jersey. This number is expected to rise, and state agencies and other employers of AFSCME-represented workers are taking as many precautions as possible.

Many employers have adjusted their operating hours and, in some cases, closed their facilities temporarily. All of this has resulted in an influx of calls to AFSCME New Jersey Council 63 staff with questions and concerns about how to handle this ever-evolving situation.

AFSCME New Jersey Council 63 is in direct contact with local leaders and the more than150 employers that employ our members. We will release more information through the appropriate channels (including on our website www.afscmenj.org and/or direct contact to specific areas) as soon as we have it.

In the coming days and weeks, AFSCME New Jersey Council 63 will work to determine what support members need. Also, be sure to document and report any cases in which you feel your rights as a worker have been violated, just as you would at any other time.

While this is a very serious situation, it is not a reason to panic. We continue to urge everyone to take precautions like regular handwashing and avoiding touching your face. If a member feels sick, is coughing, experiencing symptoms of a cold, flu, or other respiratory distress, they should not go to work. Furthermore, if you are exposed to the COVID-19/Coronavirus, you should notify your employer immediately.

AFSCME International has compiled a webpage with resources that address how to keep yourself and your family safe, including resources that specifically address concerns public service workers may have. That can be found at www.afscme.org/covid-19.

Please continue to monitor www.afscmenj.org, as well as information from state and federal agencies, as this situation develops. Thank you for all that you do.