Print
Here are Link’s stories about the new coronavirus; the disease it causes, COVID-19; and the Postal Service’s response.
Coronavirus-related stories and resources:
Columns: News | Best Practices
-
National Immunization Month
Do you have all your vaccinations?
Immunity derived from childhood vaccines can subside over time, and adults become susceptible to different diseases.
-
Making history
USPS, museum seek pandemic artifacts
Do you have items in your facility that help tell the story of how the Postal Service operated during the time of COVID-19?
-
One year in
PMG reviews Delivering for America progress
In his latest video message, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy discusses the first anniversary of Delivering for America, the Postal Service’s 10-year plan.
-
In the know
Websites offer pandemic info
The Postal Service wants to remind employees that the organization has three websites that offer information about the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Tax reminder
Teleworkers should consult expert before filing returns
Employees who opted to telework in a state different from their assigned duty station could be subject to different tax rules.
-
Feeling overwhelmed?
Help is available through EAP
The Employee Assistance Program is available to postal workers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
-
Are you in the know?
Link mobile helps keep employees informed
The mobile-friendly version of the Link website offers news reports, feature stories and informational videos.
-
COVID-19 test coverage
Federal health plans expand benefits
The Office of Personnel Management has directed Federal Employees Health Benefits Program plans to offer expanded coverage for over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits.
-
Face coverings
Employees must adhere to current policy
All employees and contractors who interact with the public must wear face coverings when required to do so.
-
Service mission
PMG lauds holiday success, test deliveries
In his latest video message, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy thanks employees for their work during the recent holiday season.
-
In the know
Stay informed with Link mobile
The mobile-friendly version of the Link website offers news reports, feature stories and informational videos.
-
Tax reminder
Teleworkers should consult expert before filing returns
Affected employees could be subject to different tax requirements for their 2021 state income tax return.
-
COVID-19 vaccinations
Temporary mandate relief sought; supply chain, legal issues cited
The Postal Service wants to be released from the testing and vaccination requirements issued by OSHA on Nov. 5.
-
The road ahead
Here’s what’s coming in 2022
The Postal Service has another busy year in 2022.
-
That’s a wrap
Holiday season’s end draws near
Across America this week, in communities large and small, Postal Service workers are bringing home the holidays for a nation that could use a little cheer.
-
Holiday headlines
Stay informed with Link mobile
Peak season is peaking — and if you want to stay in the know, you need Link mobile.
-
Holiday grifts
Watch out for seasonal scams
Be wary of fake package delivery notifications and fraudulent charity appeals, among others, this time of year.
-
People power
CFC spotlights human rights
The Combined Federal Campaign’s cause of the week is human rights.
-
Smart in-office celebrations
Safely sharing the holiday spirit
Following these tips can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 at workplace festivities.
-
Recovery mode
CFC spotlights global health
The Combined Federal Campaign’s cause of the week is global health.
-
Safe hands
Frequent washing keeps germs away
National Handwashing Awareness Week, held annually the first full week in December, will be observed Dec. 1-7.
-
A seat at the table
CFC spotlights food and nutrition
The Combined Federal Campaign’s cause of the week is food and nutrition.
-
Now open
Annual benefits enrollment period begins
Open season, the once-a-year opportunity for Postal Service employees to make changes to their health coverage or choose a new plan, is Nov. 8-Dec. 13.
-
Stay informed
Link mobile has latest USPS news
Want to stay on top of the latest Postal Service news? Link mobile can help.
-
Creative funding
CFC spotlights arts and humanities
The Combined Federal Campaign’s cause of the week is arts and humanities — the disciplines that enrich our lives and culture, challenge us to imagine and dream, and help us develop our capacity for compassion.
-
Emergency leave ends Sept. 30
USPS offers update for workers
The special leave provided federal employees with additional paid absences during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
True blue
‘Quiet heroes’ of 9/11 and beyond
The terrorist attacks that turned a cloudless September morning into a nightmare obliterated two ZIP Codes at ground zero.
-
Here to help
Highlighting suicide prevention
National Suicide Prevention Week, an annual observance that highlights the importance of mental health care and early intervention, is Sept. 5-11.
-
Summertime stress?
Help is available through the EAP
For many, this has been a trying few months. From the images streaming in from Afghanistan to historic wildfires and record heat.
-
Off camera
Tips to protect Zoom meetings
The Postal Service is asking employees and contractors to take precautions when using the Zoom platform to ensure sensitive information shared during video conferences doesn’t become compromised.
-
Gone country
Western stamps dance into employee’s heart
Gregory Huff, a general clerk, has his own YouTube channel where he teaches line dancing.
-
Your best shot
Do you have all relevant vaccinations?
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time to make sure you’ve received all relevant shots and boosters.
-
Face coverings
USPS updates policy for employees, contractors
Fully vaccinated employees and contractors don’t have to wear face coverings unless required by federal, state or local rules.
-
In the know
Link mobile has latest USPS news
Want to stay on top of the latest Postal Service news? Link mobile can help.
-
Roll call
USPS promotes good work attendance
It is important for employees who are not sick to report on time and perform their assigned duties.
-
Moving ahead
Check benefits before returning to office
The Postal Service is encouraging employees to start planning their transition back to the office, including their use of commuter benefits.
-
‘Any Dog Can Bite’
USPS begins annual awareness, safety campaign
More than 5,800 Postal Service employees were attacked by dogs last year, an increase compared with 2019.
-
Emergency federal employee leave
Understanding new law’s provisions
The Postal Service is continuing to educate about a new form of leave that was created in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Face coverings
Postal Service’s current policy continues
During the pandemic, the Postal Service requires all employees to wear face coverings in public-facing settings when there is a state or local directive in place.
-
Emergency federal employee leave
USPS offers info on new law’s provisions
The new form of leave was established under the American Rescue Plan Act, a law that took effect March 11.
-
Jump start
Center preps employees for postal careers
Dave Behling believes the key to retaining new Postal Service employees is making sure they are properly trained to do their jobs.
-
Top of it all
Link mobile has latest USPS news
The mobile-friendly version of the Link website offers news reports, feature stories and informational videos.
-
Vaccine update
Eligibility expands nationwide
Every worker and person who is age 16 or older will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination, beginning April 19.
-
Help when you need it
Updated suicide prevention resources available
The USPS Employee Assistance Program website has a section devoted to suicide prevention.
-
COVID-19 vaccines
USPS offers reminder for employees
The Postal Service encourages employees to not delay pursuing access to COVID-19 vaccines if they want to be vaccinated.
-
Tax deadline extended
IRS to give payers more time this year
The Internal Revenue Service will extend this year’s federal income tax filing deadline from April 15 to May 17 to give people more time to navigate challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Derring-do-gooders
Union promotes carriers’ heroic, humanitarian acts
A Postal Service employee from Colorado who defended a customer and her baby from a knife-wielding assailant has been named the 2020 National Hero of the Year by the National Association of Letter Carriers.
-
Sound body
Preventing injuries through ergonomics
Last year, Postal Service employees experienced nearly 9,000 work-related musculoskeletal disorder injuries.
-
Super Bowl MVP
Carrier recognized for frontline service
Richard Henderson was featured in a Super Bowl video tribute to workers who provide essential services during the pandemic.
-
Latest headlines
Stay informed with Link mobile
Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t want to miss it, Link mobile can help.
-
Pandemic info
USPS has three websites about COVID-19
The Postal Service wants to remind employees that the organization has three websites that offer information about the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Special needs
Guidance for serving customers with disabilities
The Postal Service is reminding employees and contractors that they are expected to treat all customers with respect and to always offer helpful service.
-
Under pressure
EAP offers counseling support 24/7
The Employee Assistance Program is here for postal workers around the clock, 365 days of the year.
-
COVID-19 vaccines
USPS updates employees
The organization’s goal is for everyone to be able to get a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible if they choose to do so.
-
Virtual events
If it’s non-postal, attending could be a no-no
The USPS Ethics Office is providing guidance for Postal Service employees on participating in virtual events held by other organizations.
-
Don’t miss out
Link mobile offers latest postal news
Link mobile has news reports, feature stories and informational videos, including the latest updates on the pandemic.
-
Warning signs
Know how to spot COVID-19 symptoms
The Postal Service is advising employees who feel ill to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance and stay home, especially if they are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19.
-
Share with care
USPS offers social media policy reminder
During the coronavirus pandemic, and especially during the holidays, one’s personal social media accounts can be an important way to connect.
-
Autumn achievements
Remembering 2020’s top stories
The Postal Service was as busy as ever as 2020 drew to a close.
-
Community collage
Standout stories of service
In 2020, Postal Service employees didn’t just deliver the mail. They brought happiness, celebration and some good news for Mother Earth.
-
Ports in the storm
Kids turned to USPS, mail for comfort this year
“Everything around us just changed but the mailman came every day.”
-
Summer service
Remembering 2020’s top stories
It was a summer of innovation for the Postal Service.
-
Spring strength
Remembering 2020’s top stories
The Postal Service demonstrated its indispensability during the spring as the coronavirus pandemic upended daily life across the United States.
-
Winter wins
Remembering 2020’s top stories
The Postal Service began the year at the Consumer Electronics Show, where it showcased Informed Delivery.
-
Home stretch
Employees working to deliver holidays
The Postal Service has entered peak season’s home stretch, with employees working hard to accept, process and deliver the nation’s holiday mail and packages.
-
Pandemic leave
USPS offers update for employees
A federal law that provides workers with emergency paid sick leave and other protections during the coronavirus pandemic will soon expire.
-
In the spirit
Good health essential during holidays
The USPS Health and Wellness team wants to help employees have a safe, healthy holiday season.
-
Essential service
Employee guidance for areas in lockdown
Employees and contractors are exempt from pandemic lockdown restrictions while engaging in USPS work activities.
-
Paychecks reminder
Employees urged to use direct deposit
If you don’t use direct deposit to receive your Postal Service paycheck, the organization wants you to sign up as soon as possible to avoid potential network disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Staying safe
Maintain social distancing during pandemic
The Postal Service is asking employees to adhere to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for social distancing and face coverings as coronavirus infections surge across the United States.
-
Right on time
Good attendance vital during pandemic
Michael Elmore, who works six days a week and divides his time between the Morton, MS, Post Office and two others, hasn’t missed a day’s work since the pandemic began.
-
Safety first
Stay vigilant as pandemic infections rise
The Postal Service urges employees to wear face coverings and adhere to social distancing procedures as coronavirus infections continue to spike across the nation.
-
Kids’ stuff
Tips to keep children safe online
Do you know how to keep your child safe from internet dangers?
-
Now open
Annual benefits enrollment period begins
Open season, the once-a-year opportunity for Postal Service employees to make changes to their health coverage or choose a new plan, is Nov. 9-Dec. 14 this year.
-
Just $1
Small CFC contributions add up, video shows
A new Postal Service video encourages every USPS worker to give $1 from each paycheck to the charity of their choice during the Combined Federal Campaign.
-
Opening soon
Benefits enrollment period begins next week
Open season, the annual period when Postal Service employees can change their health benefits or enroll in a new plan, begins Monday, Nov. 9.
-
Got your flu shot yet?
Getting vaccinated especially important this year
The Postal Service is encouraging employees to get a flu shot, which will be more important than ever this season because of the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Military merit
USPS recognizes veterans’ service
This Veterans Day, the Postal Service will honor employees who have served in the armed forces with a special badge and badge clip.
-
Coronavirus info
USPS has three pandemic-related websites
The Postal Service wants employees to remember that the organization has three websites that offer information about the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Pandemic guidance
Face coverings, social distancing reminder
The Postal Service is reminding employees that they must comply with local and state orders or directives to wear face coverings during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Pandemic leave FAQs
Back-to-school guidance offered
The Postal Service has updated its FAQs on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a law that requires some employers to provide workers with emergency paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for child care.
-
Pandemic protection
Employees to receive new face coverings
The Postal Service will distribute additional reusable face coverings to all employees as part of the organization’s ongoing effort to help its workers stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Be a flu fighter
To protect yourself, get vaccinated
The USPS Health and Wellness team is reminding employees that the best way to stay healthy and prevent seasonal influenza is to get vaccinated every year
-
Safe houses
Tips for a home emergency supply kit
The Postal Service wants employees to remember that home emergencies can happen at any time.
-
World of good
Employees can give to charitable campaign
The latest Combined Federal Campaign, the federal government’s annual workplace charity drive, will begin Monday, Sept. 21, and continue until Friday, Jan. 15.
-
Lifeline
Postal doctor works to protect employees
Dr. Elaine Ferguson remembers the early days of the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Travel policy extended
Limit on business trips continues until Nov. 16
The Postal Service’s policy limiting business travel during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has been extended to Nov. 16.
-
Art appreciation
Employees get creative to show pride
Like many USPS employees, Marguerite Hughes feels proud that she and her colleagues have served the public throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Pandemic leave update
OPM clarifies effect on retirement deductions
The Postal Service wants employees who took leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to know how it will affect their retirement deductions.
-
Keeping it clean
During pandemic, custodians are vital
The coronavirus pandemic has cast postal workers as heroes in the eyes of the American people, who have expressed appreciation for their service during the public health crisis.
-
FSA reminder
Changes allowed through Aug. 29
The organization that administers flexible spending accounts is allowing coronavirus-related changes during a 60-day period.
-
Well done
Nurses play vital role in pandemic response
USPS has employed occupational health nurses for years, but the pandemic has put them front and center.
-
Know the signs
How to avoid heat-related illnesses
If you or a co-worker were experiencing a heat-related illness, would you recognize the symptoms?
-
Fill ’er up
‘Hydration stations’ promote heat safety
Pacific Area is making efforts to help employees protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
-
Pandemic guidance
Video explains how to reduce COVID-19 risk
A new Postal Service video shows how employees can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
-
FSA update
Changes allowed during limited period
Postal Service employees who participate in flexible spending accounts can make changes during a 60-day period that began July 1 and ends Aug. 29.
-
Face coverings policy
New resource helps ensure compliance
USPS requires all employees to wear face coverings when there is a state or local face covering order or directive in place.
-
Helping out
Employees aided charities during pandemic
Postal Service employees donated more than $45,000 to charities during a special Combined Federal Campaign solicitation to aid charities affected the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Safe house
Tips to secure your USPS computer at home
The Postal Service wants employees and contractors to take extra security precautions while teleworking.
-
More flexibility
Law expands use of spending accounts
The federal government is allowing expanded use of flexible spending accounts under a new law designed to help people during the national economic downturn.
-
Safety update
USPS distributing face coverings to all employees
The new coverings are part of the organization’s effort to ensure the safety of workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Protect yourself
Staying safe during hot weather
The Postal Service also wants employees to stay hydrated, dress appropriately for the heat and avoid direct sunlight.
-
Spangled star
July 4 TV special to feature carrier
Postal Service employees who tune into NBC’s coverage of New York City’s Independence Day fireworks display will see one of their own.
-
Essential information
Always carry service letter, USPS advises
USPS wants every employee and contractor to continue to carry the essential service provider letter that the organization issued this year.
-
Making it work
During pandemic, internships go virtual
The coronavirus pandemic is providing new learning experiences for the Postal Service’s summer interns.
-
Pandemic safety
Face coverings, social distancing required
The Postal Service is reminding employees to continue to practice social distancing and to wear face coverings to protect themselves during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Banner days
Los Angeles workers show love for peers
Employees shipped banners with a special message to processing plants in New York City, Chicago and Detroit.
-
Staying grounded
USPS continues to limit business-related travel
The organization has extended restrictions that took effect in March to until at least Aug. 3.
-
Time of need
Special giving period ends June 30
USPS employees have pledged more than $35,000 to Combined Federal Campaign charities affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Blue streak
USPS retiree honors former colleagues
When Margaret Daniels read on social media that people were being asked to tie blue ribbons to their mailboxes to show support for Postal Service employees, she took the challenge to heart.
-
Get ready
Hurricane season begins June 1
The Postal Service wants employees to be prepared for hurricanes and the dangerous conditions they bring.
-
Need info?
Library offers new research tools
If you need to conduct research related to the coronavirus pandemic, the USPS Corporate Library can help.
-
Coronavirus coverage
Stories archived on new pandemic page
Link has devoted a section of its website to the coronavirus pandemic.
-
For your information
Special edition of newsletter discusses virus
The Postal Service is publishing a special coronavirus pandemic-themed edition of Area Update, its print newsletter for employees.
-
Home court
Hatch Act rules apply to teleworking
The Postal Service wants employees to know that the Hatch Act’s rules on politicking are in effect when working from home.
-
Parental guidance
Keeping kids safe online during pandemic
The Postal Service wants to remind employees sheltering at home with children to monitor their online activity.
-
Sincerely, Mailman Kyle
Carrier’s kindness recognized in presidential ceremony
Kyle West was one of several people invited to the nation’s capital to highlight their charitable responses to the pandemic.
-
Being well
Webinars on mental health, weight offered
The USPS Wellness team will offer two webinars this week that are designed to help Postal Service employees deal with their mental and physical health during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
CDC updates
New info on COVID-19 symptoms, safety
The Postal Service is sharing new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about COVID-19 symptoms.
-
Public trust
Employees must still follow ethics rules
The Postal Service wants employees to know that ethics rules continue to apply during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Job well done
#PostalProud materials highlight essential service
USPS is showcasing its essential workforce with new #PostalProud marketing materials.
-
Mental Health Awareness Month
Care important in uncertain times
The USPS Wellness team is encouraging all employees to take care of their mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Meeting the press
How to deal with news media inquiries
USPS is providing an essential public service during this crisis, and the organization wants to ensure customers have accurate information about its work.
-
Staying safe
Face coverings guidance for warm weather
As the weather begins to warm up, the Postal Service is reminding employees of ways to prevent heat-related illnesses during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
In this together
Employee brings caring message to ‘Kelly and Ryan’
The Detroit letter carrier recently appeared on “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” the TV talk show hosted by Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest, to discuss her job delivering mail and packages during the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Special solicitation
Charitable campaign reopens for pandemic donations
The special solicitation period is to support charities as they face unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19.
-
Think before posting
Social media policy reminder
USPS wants employees to follow its rules about sharing workplace images and information on social media.
-
Face coverings
New policy takes effect April 21
In areas where local and state governments have ordered or directed people to wear face masks, Postal Service employees should comply.
-
Stay safe
Watch out for kids, dogs during lockdown
With many workplaces and most schools closed because of the outbreak, more customers are at home during the daytime with their kids and pets.
-
Gift offerings
USPS offers guidelines for workers
The Postal Service is reminding employees of the rules about accepting gifts from outside sources during the coronavirus national health emergency.
-
Occupational Health Nurses Week
Annual commemoration underway
Occupational Health Nurses Week, which recognizes the important work of these medical professionals, is being observed this week.
-
CDC’s new guidance
Cloth face coverings now recommended
The Postal Service is sharing new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the use of face coverings to help guard against COVID-19.
-
Safety first
No evidence virus spread through mail, packages
The Postal Service is sharing guidance from public health organizations and other authorities that have stated there’s no evidence the coronavirus is spread through the mail.
-
Strictly confidential
USPS protects employee health information
The organization will not identify individuals who contract COVID-19, the diseased caused by the coronavirus, by name.
-
Pandemic stress
Coping with coronavirus concerns
“Coronavirus: Prepare without Panic” handouts are available on the Employee Assistance Program website.
-
First things first
Coronavirus act guides leave for federal workers
The Postal Service is reminding employees of certain rights they have under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
-
On hold
Annual food drive postponed
This year’s Stamp Out Hunger food drive, scheduled for May 9, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. A new date has not been announced.
-
Letter to the law
How to deal with travel restrictions
USPS is providing employees and contractors with a letter they can show to law enforcement during the coronavirus pandemic to affirm their status as essential public servants.
-
Keeping current
Catching up with Link’s COVID-19 coverage
Link has published many stories recently about the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Keeping up
Link mobile offers news on coronavirus, other topics
If you’re a Postal Service employee who wants to stay informed on the organization’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, don’t forget about Link mobile.
-
Truth be told
FEMA site combats COVID-19 rumor mill
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has launched a website to combat the spread of false claims circulating about COVID-19, the disease associated with the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Paychecks notice
Employees encouraged to use direct deposit
The Postal Service is encouraging employees who don’t use direct deposit to receive their paychecks to sign up as soon as possible due to potential network disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Steadfast service
Employees stay upbeat in face of pandemic
As the nation’s response to the coronavirus pandemic evolves, Postal Service employees are continuing to proudly serve their communities.
-
COVID-19 cons
Watch out for coronavirus scams
If you’re a Postal Service employee, watch out for scams that attempt to use the coronavirus pandemic to con you into revealing personal information.
-
Staying informed
Employees can receive alerts during emergencies
Postal Service employees can sign up to receive informational alerts from the organization during emergencies, including the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Travel limitations
USPS to approve only mission-critical business requests
The more-restrictive travel policy took effect March 17 and will last until May 11, although it could be extended.
-
Easy as 1-2-3
Video demonstrates effective handwashing
The Postal Service is sharing a video from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that shows the steps to properly wash your hands.
-
Important reminder
Employees must provide current info
If you work for the Postal Service, you’re required to provide the organization with your current mailing address.
-
Travel update
Written approval now required for requests
USPS is encouraging employees to use videoconferencing and teleconferencing in place of travel when possible.
-
Coronavirus resources
Blue, LiteBlue pages to keep workers informed
The Postal Service has introduced Blue and LiteBlue pages with resources to help educate employees about the coronavirus pandemic.
-
Help is here
EAP assists employees in need
The Postal Service wants employees to remember that counseling and other services are available through the Employee Assistance Program.
-
Staying vigilant
CDC’s coronavirus guidance still being shared
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus and to wash your hands frequently.
-
Coronavirus update
Postal Service shares CDC guidance
The Postal Service is sharing updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the novel coronavirus outbreak that recently began in Wuhan, China.
-
Staying healthy
Take steps to avoid flu, other illnesses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is providing the public with tips to prevent influenza and other contagious respiratory illnesses.