by B.J. Tyrrell

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: May 31, 2009

With the worry of swine flu becoming a global epidemic, hopefully more people will become alert to the fact that going to work sick, in some cases, makes them a liability not an asset in the workplace. People go to work sick for a variety of reasons such as fear of being seen as a poor asset to their employer, not being able to afford to miss a day's pay and feeling as though the work place cannot run without them. This phenomenon is so prevalent it actually has a name: presenteeism.

Although you might see it as taking one for the team or as ensuring your position when there are so many losing their jobs in this current recession, realize that going to work at certain times can actually make you a liability not and asset to your company. Going to work when you have certain symptoms can actually cost your employer money not only because your performance will be lacking but because you risk infecting other staff members who could then be absent as a result. Not to mention lack of consideration for the health and well being of others is not very 'team' like.

Some cases when it is better to call off then to report in are:

When you are running a fever above 100.5 degrees because this is a sure sign of your body fighting off an infection and without seeking medical attention you do not know if this infection could be contagious.

When you have symptoms of conjunctivitis (pink eye), because this is highly contagious.

Diarrhea or vomiting can be symptoms of a virus which are contagious and it is advisable not to return to work until you have been free of these symptoms for at least 24 hours.

A cough that produces mucus or that is so severe that it will distract you and everyone around you for the day.

If you work in close proximity to others or with food or in a situation such as health care where you are likely to come into contact with those who have a lowered immunity stay home if you are unsure if your symptoms are being caused by a contagious illness.

When you have an unidentified rash, because you risk contaminating every thing that you touch.

Keep in mind your main considerations here are: Do I risk infecting others? Will my symptoms prevent me from performing my job? Will my symptoms make the performance of my job a danger to me or others?

Times when you should report to work:

When you have a slight cough or allergy symptoms as long as any medication you are taking will not severely interfere with your performance or make performance of your job

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