MARION — Town Administrator James McGrail and Health Director Karen Walega would like to provide guidance for Marion employers regarding business operations and resources during the COVID-19 situation.

The Marion Board of Health advises all employers to encourage employees who are returning from vacation, have traveled by air or participated in large group gatherings to self-quarantine for 14 days before returning to work, if possible. Employees with any symptoms of illness or who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should seek medical advice before coming to work.

The town encourages residents to practice social distancing — maintaining a distance of approximately 6 feet from other people — which has proven effective at slowing the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing will help to minimize exposure among people, especially given that COVID-19 is highly contagious and people may be contagious before exhibiting symptoms.

The Marion Board of Health would also like to recommend the following for employers based on guidelines from the Massachusetts Department of Health (DPH):

• Make telecommuting options available for as many employees as possible and urge employees to stay home when they are sick.
• Be flexible with sick leave benefits for those who are ill or who are recommended to stay home because they are at high risk.
• Avoid large events or gatherings, especially if you are at higher risk for serious health complications from the virus.
• Postpone large indoor events or gatherings, including school activities, programs and sporting events.
• Should events be held, provide prevention supplies such as sinks with soap, hand sanitizers and tissues.
• Continue to promote daily practices of preventative actions, such as washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, staying home when you are sick, using proper techniques when coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching your face and cleaning frequently touched surfaces and objects daily.
• As always, stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.

Takeout and delivery patrons are urged to call ahead or place their orders online with restaurants and eateries in order to minimize face-to-face interaction and streamline the pickup process. The Commonwealth also has funding resources available for small businesses.

Marion residents and business owners are encouraged to make use of the state’s newly expanded 2-1-1 system for information and medical questions regarding the coronavirus crisis. People can call 211 on any landline or cellphone to learn more about:

• COVID-19 prevention, symptoms, and treatment
• Information about testing
• Guidance for people planning or returning from travel

For more information, visit the DPH website by clicking here and the CDC’s website by clicking here.