Working while sick...

Anonymous

January 4,2019 at 2:03AM UTC

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What your thoughts on working while recovering from (mild) illness like a cold? Of course I want to protect my coworkers from getting sick and rest so I can feel better soon - but sometimes schedules don't allow for that!

What are your tips for recovering while still managing your workload?

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AnonymousJanuary 4,2019 at 3:00AM UTC
Lately I always feel like I've got a lingering cold or the beginning of a new one. Unfortunately I think its partially the season and partially me just not having a great immune system. I think there's little you can really do beyond just covering your mouth when you cough and being aware of when the symptoms take a turn for the worse!
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Lady PeleJanuary 4,2019 at 12:40PM UTC
Work from home if at all possible. With skype, zoom, go to meeting or other tools, you can still get work done, recover and not spread an illness around the office.
If it's not possible, use disinfectant wipes and some hand sanitizer to help minimize spreading the germs.
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AnonymousJanuary 4,2019 at 1:43PM UTC
Tell your coworkers that you are ill and might be contagious. Some of them may have compromised immune systems, or a family member with a compromised immune system, and what is a minor cold to you is life-threatening to them. Work remotely if you can. Sterilize everything you come into contact with in common areas (office kitchen, bathroom, etc.)
If you want to be an activist, petition your company for sick leave, so you don't have to work when you're sick.
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AnonymousJanuary 7,2019 at 3:54PM UTC
Thank you for saying this. In all honesty, I used to be a "work at all costs" person...until I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and started chemo. It puts everything in perspective. As you said, what is minor to someone else could be very serious for me when my immune system is compromised. I do my part by washing hands, sanitizing, wearing masks, and staying away from crowds. It helps though if people who know they are sick stay home until they are well.
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