Lockdown measures have eased, and more people are heading back to their offices and workplaces
after months of working from home. But with cases of coronavirus still here, we’re all wary of
potential signs and symptoms of infection.
Last year, we might not have thought twice about heading to work with a runny nose, sore throat,
and aching limbs. Instead, it’s likely we would have dosed up on painkillers, and forced ourselves to
head to the office, rather than taking a sick day.
But with the symptoms of many common respiratory illnesses like that of COVID-19, should we really
be heading to work if we’re unwell?
The symptoms of COVID-19
Although colds, flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, some of the symptoms can be
similar. Most people who become infected with coronavirus will have at least one key symptom,
such as a high temperature, a new and continuous cough and a loss or change to their sense of smell
or taste. A high temperature is unlikely with a cold, but some people may experience chills, aching
limbs, or a sore throat.
If you do experience any COVID-related symptoms, you should get yourself a coronavirus test and
self-isolate while you wait for the result. However, there is a shortage of tests available in many
areas.
If you can’t get a test, ring your manager, and explain the situation. Even if you are unsure whether
you have coronavirus symptoms or not, it might be worth staying off work or working from home if
you can. Your employer might already have a plan in place for employees who may have symptoms,
in which you can work remotely.
Taking a sick day can be worth it
Unlike more serious illnesses which justify recovery time, a bad cold can be a grey area. On the one
hand, you might feel rubbish and unable to concentrate on work. On the other, you’re probably still
able to turn up to the office, even if you know you won’t get much work done.
Not all businesses will pay their employees when they take sick days, so many people can’t afford to
take time off when they need to. It’s also common for people to turn up to work when they’re
unwell over fears they will be penalized or seen as lazy. A lack of job security due to the recession
triggered by the pandemic may also led to sick employees heading to work.
But even if it’s unlikely that you have coronavirus, sometimes it can be worth taking a sick day if you
need to.