by Doreen Martel

Created on: December 20, 2011

When the first symptoms of a cold hit, chances are that most of us will head out to work each day. This is largely because a cold is normally little more than a nuisance, we feel lousy but not bad enough to keep us home. However, there are times when going to work with a cold is a very bad idea.  There are some signs that will let you know when to stay home with a cold.

Your day-to-day contact

Employees who are working with children or the elderly should consider staying at home when they get a cold. These two groups are susceptible to germs and if they contract a cold they can suffer far more serious health problems. In addition to a cold, children and seniors may be more likely to wind up with bronchitis or pneumonia if they pick up cold germs. Even when a cold seems mild, it is often a good idea to consider the people you are coming in contact with.

Your job responsibilities

Those who handle food should always stay home with a cold. Regardless of how well a person practices safe food handling, those with a cold may still spread their cold germs by contacting plates, silverware and food products like bread. Anytime someone is serving food or handling food in any manner a cold should be enough to keep them at home.

Job responsibilities

Cold medications can make you feel sluggish and slow reflexes. Those who make a living driving vehicles (school buses, taxi cabs, etc.) may be better off staying at home. Others who should consider staying at home are heavy equipment operators or those who spend a bulk of their day outdoors. Not only can these situations be dangerous for you but for others. Those who work outdoors also run the risk of getting sicker if they are working outdoors with a cold.

Other symptoms

When displaying other cold symptoms such as fever or chills, it is generally a good idea to stay at home. These symptoms may only be related to the cold, but they may also be symptoms of a more serious problem.  Deep dry coughs, earaches and sore throats may be related to the cold but could also be symptoms of something that is more problematic. It may be a good idea to see a doctor versus going to work.

Very few things except rest and time will help someone overcome a cold. However, there are numerous reasons when you should stay home with a cold, especially if you are dealing with the public. When people have colds, their immune systems may be compromised. While cold and cough preparations may help you feel better temporarily, it is important to evaluate your working conditions before deciding to go to work.

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