​When Should You Stay Home?

I get asked this question, often.  You usually know when you're feeling too sick to go to work.  You may have a fever and a persistent cough, or you're too fatigued to get out of bed. If your symptoms cause you the sudden urge to be near a bathroom, that’s a good enough reason not to report for work. However, on the mind of most workers, is not whether they’re too sick to report to work but whether they can afford not to.

Most employees are filled with fear and guilt when it comes to calling out sick. I know from working in Urgent Care Centers that even when patients don’t feel well, they are reluctant to ask for an absence excuse. Smaller companies seem to have a closer relationship with their employees and a better understanding of their needs.  Larger companies with more stringent absenteeism policies have employees with the constant feeling that their jobs may be in jeopardy.

When it comes to employee illness, only the employee knows how unwell they feel. A sick employee poses a risk to the entire company, especially when it involves viral coughs and colds. Respiratory viruses remain active on hard surfaces such as desk, doorknobs and keyboards for up to 48 hours. Cold and flu virus can remain active in the body for 7-14 days. If you are sick, you are a risk to those around you. Sanitize all surfaces that others may encounter and wash your hands frequently. Keep your hands way from your nose and mouth; it's how viruses enter the body. Wait until you are feeling at least fifty-percent well before returning to work. The workplace is healthier and more productive when sick employees remain at home, and that includes you.

Make sure you have your Winter Wellness Kit. And don't forget your Oreganol. If you are not already receiving access to the Inner Circle of Wellness. Stay Connected. Your power begins within.