Should you go to work when you're sick? 5 signs you should call in sick and stay home

Every year, infectious diseases like the common cold, flu, and COVID-19 cause millions of people worldwide to miss work and school. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), even one person going to work or school while symptomatic with an infectious disease can increase the risk of transmission to many others, especially in offices, schools, and crowded places.

If you're wondering if you should go to work when sick, if you should go to school when sick, or when you need to take sick leave, this article will help you quickly assess the severity of your illness based on common symptoms. Tiptory will guide you on when to rest for recovery, when you can continue studying or working, and how to reduce the risk of spreading illness to colleagues, classmates, and family members. With just a few simple signs, you can make more informed decisions to protect your own health and that of the community.

Signs you should take sick leave or stay home from school

Stay home if you have a fever of 38°C or higher

• If your body temperature is 38°C or higher, you should take sick leave instead of trying to go to work or school.
• Fever is a sign that your body is fighting off a viral or bacterial infection. Adequate rest helps your body recover faster.
• Only return to work or school when your fever has resolved as per your doctor's instructions or after being fever-free for an appropriate period without using fever-reducing medication.

Vomiting or diarrhea are signs you should not go to work or school

• If you are experiencing frequent vomiting or diarrhea, the risk of dehydration and exhaustion increases, significantly reducing your ability to learn and work.
• During this time, prioritize rest, drink plenty of fluids, and replenish electrolytes if necessary.
• If symptoms persist, if there is blood in your stool, severe abdominal pain, or signs of severe dehydration, seek medical attention.

Persistent coughing makes it difficult to work and easily spreads illness

• If you have a persistent, severe, or uncontrollable cough, it's best to stay home until your symptoms improve.
• Persistent coughing not only affects work and study efficiency but also increases the risk of spreading infectious droplets if the cause is a contagious disease.
• This is one of the important criteria to consider if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick.

If you have symptoms of an infectious disease, limit contact with others

• You should take sick leave and avoid crowded places if you have suspected symptoms of an infectious disease such as:
  • COVID-19.
  • Seasonal flu.
  • Strep throat.
  • Conjunctivitis (pinkeye).
• Staying home during the contagious period not only helps you recover better but also helps protect colleagues, classmates, family members, and high-risk individuals such as young children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions.

Prioritize protecting your health and the community

• If you are still wondering if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick, assess the severity of your symptoms rather than relying solely on subjective feelings.
• When experiencing fever, vomiting, diarrhea, severe coughing, or suspected infectious disease, the safest option is usually to rest at home, monitor your health, and only return to work or school when the risk of transmission has decreased and your physical condition has recovered. This not only shortens recovery time but also helps limit the spread of illness in the community.

Part 1: Signs of infectious illness – when should you stay home?

Sign 1: High fever – take sick leave or stay home from school

Stay home if you have a fever of 38°C or higher

• If your body temperature is 38°C or higher, you should take sick leave and avoid going to work or school.
• Fever is a natural immune response when the body is fighting off viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. In many cases, a high fever also means you may be in a contagious stage and able to spread illness to those around you.
• If you're wondering if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick, a fever of 38°C is an important sign that you should rest to protect your own health and the community.

Only return after being fever-free for at least 24 hours

• You should only return to work or school when your body temperature has returned to normal, around 37°C, and has remained stable for at least 24 hours.
• During this time, there should be no recurrence of fever. This is a common recommendation to reduce the risk of transmitting respiratory infections and to allow the body more time to recover.

Fever-reducing medication does not reduce contagiousness

• Fever-reducing medication can make you feel more comfortable and temporarily bring your body temperature back to normal, but it does not mean the pathogen has disappeared.
• Therefore, even if you've taken medication and feel better, you can still spread the illness to others if the cause of the fever is an infectious disease.
• This is why health experts advise against relying on fever-reducing medication to decide if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick.

High fever often accompanies systemic symptoms

• People with high fever often have additional symptoms such as:
  • Profuse sweating.
  • Chills or shivering.
  • Fatigue, body aches.
  • Headache or decreased concentration.
• These symptoms can reduce learning and work effectiveness and indicate that the body needs rest to recover.

Monitor symptoms and seek medical attention when needed

• If fever persists for several days, is very high, accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention to determine the cause.
• Taking sick leave at the right time not only helps you recover faster but also helps limit the risk of spreading illness in your family, school, and workplace.

Sign 2: Frequent coughing – should you take sick leave or stay home from school?

Stay home if you have a persistent, uncontrollable cough

• If you have a frequent, uncontrollable cough, especially if accompanied by a sore throat or shortness of breath, take sick leave and limit contact with others.
• This could be a sign of a respiratory illness caused by a virus or bacteria. Many diseases in this group can spread through droplets when coughing or sneezing.
• If you're unsure if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick, a persistent and difficult-to-control cough is one reason to rest to avoid spreading illness to colleagues, classmates, and family members.

Mild cough due to cold or allergies may not require absence

• A mild cough is sometimes only related to a common cold or allergies.
• You may also have symptoms such as:
  • Nasal congestion.
  • Runny nose.
  • Sneezing.
• If your health is stable, without fever, not overly fatigued, and without signs of severe infectious disease, you can usually still study or work. However, wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms and limit close contact with others.

A deep chest cough may be a sign of a serious illness

• If the cough comes from deep in your chest, is prolonged, or is accompanied by chest pain, high fever, abnormal sputum, or shortness of breath, do not be complacent.
• These could be symptoms of conditions like pneumonia or other respiratory infections that require early evaluation and treatment by a doctor.

Some infectious diseases often cause coughing

• Coughing is a common symptom of many infectious diseases, including:
  • Seasonal flu.
  • COVID-19.
  • Other viral or bacterial respiratory infections.
• When experiencing a cough accompanied by fever, sore throat, or fatigue, you should consider taking sick leave, monitoring your health, and taking infection prevention measures as recommended by health authorities.

See a doctor if your cough persists or worsens

• Contact a doctor if:
  • Your cough persists without improvement.
  • Your cough is getting worse.
  • Your cough is accompanied by high fever, chest pain, or coughing up blood.
  • You have underlying heart or lung conditions.
• Seeking medical attention helps determine the cause and select appropriate treatment methods, rather than self-medicating.

Maintain hygiene to limit disease spread

• When coughing or sneezing, be sure to:
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer.
  • Wear a mask if you must interact with others.
• These habits help reduce the risk of spreading pathogens in your family, school, and workplace.

Shortness of breath with coughing requires immediate emergency care

• If your cough is accompanied by severe shortness of breath, rapid breathing, bluish lips or fingertips, severe chest pain, or a feeling of not being able to get enough air, go to the nearest emergency room or call for emergency help immediately.
• These could be signs of a dangerous respiratory condition requiring urgent treatment.

Sign 3: Frequent vomiting – take sick leave or stay home from school

Stay home if you are vomiting frequently for rest

• If you are vomiting frequently or continuously, take sick leave and avoid going to work or school.
• Prolonged vomiting not only causes fatigue but also increases the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. In many cases, it can also be a sign of an infectious disease such as viral gastroenteritis or food poisoning.
• If you're wondering if you should go to work when sick or if you should go to school when sick, continuous vomiting is a sign that you should rest to recover and limit the spread of illness to others.

Prioritize rehydration to prevent dehydration

• When vomiting, the body loses a lot of water and electrolytes, so it is important to replenish fluids as soon as possible.
• You should:
  • Drink small sips of water frequently.
  • Use an oral rehydration solution (ORS) as directed if appropriate.
  • When you feel better, start eating soft, easily digestible foods in small amounts.
• Avoid drinking too much water at once, as this can induce more vomiting.

If you cannot drink water, try small amounts

• If you vomit immediately after drinking water, try:
  • Sucking on small ice chips or crushed ice to slowly replenish fluids.
  • Drinking water by the spoonful or very small sips every few minutes.
• This method can help your stomach adapt better and reduce the risk of further vomiting.

Recognize signs of dehydration that require medical attention

• Go to a medical facility if you cannot keep any fluids down or show signs of dehydration such as:
  • Fatigue, exhaustion, or dizziness.
  • Persistent headache.
  • Very little or no urination for several hours.
  • Dark or deep yellow urine.
  • Dry mouth, dry lips.
  • Infants crying without tears.
• Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids and hospital treatment to prevent dangerous complications.

Only return to work or school when fully recovered

• You should only return to school or work when you have stopped vomiting, can eat and drink normally, and your body shows no signs of dehydration.
• Taking sick leave at the right time helps your body recover faster and reduces the risk of spreading gastrointestinal illnesses in your family, school, and workplace.

Sign 4: Diarrhea – when to stay home from work/school

Diarrhea: Stay home to monitor your health

• If you have diarrhea, especially first thing in the morning or frequent loose stools, take sick leave and stay home to rest.
• Diarrhea can be a sign of viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections of the intestines. Some cases can spread through contaminated food, water, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
• If you're wondering whether to go to work when sick or whether to go to school when sick, diarrhea is a condition where you should prioritize rest to avoid dehydration and prevent spreading the illness to others.

Diarrhea can easily cause dehydration

• When you have diarrhea, your body loses a lot of water and electrolytes in a short period.
• You should:
  • Drink water frequently, even if you don't feel thirsty.
  • Supplement with oral rehydration solution (ORS) as directed if needed.
  • Eat soft, easily digestible foods when your condition improves.
• Early rehydration helps reduce the risk of fatigue, low blood pressure, and complications from dehydration.

Not all cases of diarrhea are contagious

• Diarrhea can also be caused by:
  • Side effects of certain medications.
  • Food intolerance.
  • Eating foods that irritate the digestive tract.
• In these cases, the illness is usually not contagious to others. If your health is stable, you have no fever, no severe abdominal pain, and can function normally, you may continue to study or work.
• However, consider the practical circumstances. If you need to have bowel movements frequently and bathroom access is inconvenient, taking sick leave is still a reasonable choice.

Monitor for signs that require medical attention

• Go to a medical facility if diarrhea:
  • Lasts more than a few days without improvement.
  • Is accompanied by a high fever.
  • Contains blood or mucus in the stool.
  • Causes severe abdominal pain.
  • Shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, dizziness, infrequent urination, or dark urine.
• Elderly individuals, young children, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions should seek early medical attention as they are at higher risk of dehydration.

Only return when symptoms have stabilized

• You should return to work or school when diarrhea has stopped, your body is fully rehydrated, and your health has recovered.
• Timely rest not only helps you recover faster but also reduces the risk of spreading gastrointestinal diseases in schools, offices, and crowded places.

Sign 5: Suspected COVID-19 – what to do?

Stay home immediately if you suspect COVID-19

• If you have symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, take sick leave, stay home, and limit contact with others, unless you need to visit a medical facility for examination.
• Rest helps your body recover and reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to family, colleagues, and classmates.
• If you are wondering whether to go to work when sick or whether to go to school when sick, when suspecting COVID-19, the safest option is to avoid crowded places until your health status has been assessed and confirmed.

Recognize common symptoms of COVID-19

• COVID-19 can cause various symptoms of differing severity, commonly including:
  • Fever.
  • Cough.
  • Fatigue.
  • Body aches.
  • Loss or reduction of taste or smell.
• Some people may also experience:
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Rash.
  • Sore throat or nasal congestion.
• Symptoms can range from mild to severe, so it's important to closely monitor the progression of the illness.

Get tested if there's a risk of illness

• If you suspect COVID-19 due to symptoms or contact with an infected person, contact a medical facility for guidance on testing if necessary.
• Testing helps identify the cause of the illness, allowing for appropriate treatment, care, and prevention of infection.

Only return to work or school when fully recovered

• If diagnosed with COVID-19, follow the latest guidelines from health authorities regarding isolation periods and when it is safe to return to school or work.
• The duration of sick leave may vary depending on the severity of the illness, immune status, and current health regulations.
• You should only return when your symptoms have significantly improved, you have been fever-free without fever-reducing medication for the recommended period, and there is no longer a risk of transmission according to your doctor or health authorities.

Seek medical attention immediately if you have dangerous signs

• Seek emergency medical care if you experience symptoms such as:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest.
  • Confusion, difficulty staying awake.
  • Difficulty speaking, moving, or bluish lips or fingertips.
• These are signs that may indicate a worsening condition and require prompt treatment.

Continue to implement infection prevention measures

• While symptomatic, you should:
  • Wear a mask when in contact with others.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
  • Keep living spaces well-ventilated and limit sharing personal items.
• These measures help reduce the risk of spreading respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, in your family and community.

Part 2: When should children stay home from school when sick?

Sign 1: When should a child return to school?

Only send children to school when a doctor confirms it's safe

• If a child is undergoing treatment or has recently recovered from an illness after a medical examination, parents should wait until a doctor confirms that the child can return to school or daycare.
• Even if the child appears to be healthier, their body may not have fully recovered, or they may still be able to transmit the illness to others.
• Sending a child to school at the right time not only helps them recover better but also protects the health of their classmates and teachers.

Be cautious with children who may transmit illness to others

• Some children at school may:
  • Not be fully vaccinated according to recommendations.
  • Have a weakened immune system due to illness or ongoing treatment.
• If your child is still contagious, keeping them home for a little longer will help reduce the risk of an outbreak in the classroom and protect children who are at high risk.

Do not rely solely on feeling better

• After a cold, flu, or other infections, many children may no longer feel tired but still have a cough, runny nose, or are in the recovery phase.
• In some cases, children may still shed pathogens even if their symptoms have decreased.
• Therefore, parents should not rely solely on whether their child is eating or playing normally to decide whether a sick child should go to school, but should consider the illness and the doctor's guidance.

Some illnesses allow children to return to school after starting treatment

• For some illnesses, such as:
  • Scabies.
  • Head lice.
  • Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum).
• Children may be allowed to return to school after starting treatment as prescribed by a doctor and meeting safety criteria.
• However, the timing of return to school may vary depending on the specific illness, symptom severity, and school or health authority regulations.

Monitor health before children return to school

• Before children return to school, parents should ensure:
  • The child's fever has subsided for the doctor-recommended duration.
  • The child is eating and drinking normally.
  • The child is alert and able to participate in age-appropriate learning activities.
  • Major symptoms have significantly improved.
• If you are still unsure whether a sick child should go to school, consult a doctor or healthcare facility for guidance appropriate to the child's condition.

Sign 2: Should a child with pink eye stay home from school?

Keep children home from school if they have pink eye

• If a child has pink eye (conjunctivitis), parents should keep them home from school and limit contact with others.
• The condition often causes red eyes, watery discharge, or excessive yellow or greenish-yellow crusting, especially after waking up.
• If you are wondering whether a sick child should go to school, pink eye is highly contagious in a school environment, so children should not attend class while they are still infectious.

Pink eye spreads easily in schools

• Children with pink eye often feel itchy or have a gritty sensation in their eyes, so they tend to rub their eyes frequently.
• After touching their eyes, children can spread germs through:
  • Shaking hands or direct contact with friends.
  • Shared toys.
  • Desks, doorknobs, and frequently touched surfaces.
• This is why pink eye outbreaks often occur in schools, daycare centers, and crowded places.

Correct treatment helps the condition improve quickly

• If you suspect your child has pink eye, parents should take them for an examination to determine the cause, as the condition can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies, and each case will require a different treatment approach.
• Do not self-medicate or use antibiotic or corticosteroid eye drops without a doctor's prescription.
• At the same time, children need to be instructed to:
  • Avoid rubbing their eyes.
  • Wash their hands frequently with soap.
  • Use separate face towels, wipes, and pillows.
  • Do not share eye drops or personal items.

Only allow children to return to school when there is no longer a risk of infection

• After starting treatment, children can return to school when a doctor confirms that the risk of infection has decreased or is no longer significant.
• Before children return to school, parents should ensure:
  • Their eyes are less red and have less discharge.
  • The child is no longer constantly rubbing their eyes.
  • The child is healthy enough to participate in learning activities.
• If you are unsure whether a sick child should go to school, consult a doctor to choose an appropriate time, which will protect the child's health and limit the spread of infection to classmates.

Sign 3: Should a child with impetigo stay home from school?

Keep children home from school after starting treatment

• If a child has impetigo, parents should keep them home from school for at least 24 hours after starting treatment as prescribed by a doctor.
• Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection in young children, capable of spreading rapidly through direct contact with affected skin or shared personal items.
• If you are debating whether a sick child should go to school, children with impetigo should not attend school during the initial treatment phase to reduce the risk of spreading the illness to classmates.

Recognizing the signs of impetigo

• Impetigo often causes:
  • Red spots or blisters on the skin.
  • Sores around the mouth, nose, or on the hands and feet.
  • Lesions that may rupture, ooze fluid, and then form characteristic honey-colored crusts.
• The condition is usually not dangerous if treated correctly, but it can spread or infect others if not properly managed.

Early treatment helps reduce the risk of infection

• If impetigo is suspected, parents should take the child to a doctor for appropriate treatment, which may include topical medications or antibiotics if necessary.
• Do not self-medicate without determining the cause, as some other skin conditions have similar symptoms.
• During treatment, it is essential to:
  • Keep the affected skin clean and dry.
  • Wash hands frequently before and after caring for the child.
  • Prevent the child from scratching or picking at the sores.
  • Do not share towels, clothes, or bedding with others.

Cover affected areas when the child returns to school

• After treatment as directed and a doctor deems them fit to attend school, parents should:
  • Cover any remaining affected skin areas with clean bandages if possible.
  • Ensure the child maintains good hand hygiene to prevent infection.
• Covering blisters or sores helps reduce the risk of direct contact with bacterial discharge.

Only allow children to return to school when it is safe

• Children can usually return to school after at least 24 hours of treatment and when a doctor confirms that the risk of infection has decreased.
• If lesions continue to spread, ooze a lot of fluid, or the child has a fever, parents should continue to keep the child home and take them for a follow-up examination.
• If unsure whether a sick child should go to school, prioritize following a doctor's instructions to protect the child's health and limit the spread of the illness in school.

Sign 4: Children with strep throat should stay home from school

Keep children home from school if they have strep throat

• If a child is suspected or diagnosed with streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat), parents should keep them home from school and limit contact with others.
• This is a bacterial infection that can spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact. If not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications.
• If you are wondering whether a sick child should go to school, strep throat is a condition where children should stay home for treatment and to avoid spreading the illness to friends.

Recognizing common symptoms

• Children with strep throat often have symptoms such as:
  • Severe sore throat.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • Fever.
  • Swollen, red tonsils, possibly with white patches.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
• Since symptoms can resemble viral pharyngitis, a medical examination is necessary to correctly identify the cause.

Take the child to a doctor for appropriate treatment

• If strep throat is suspected, take the child to a medical facility for examination and testing if necessary.
• If the cause is streptococcal bacteria, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to:
  • Shorten the duration of the illness.
  • Reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
  • Prevent complications such as rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
• Parents must ensure the child takes the medication at the correct dosage and for the prescribed duration, even if symptoms have improved.

Children can return to school after antibiotic treatment

• In many cases, children can return to school after taking antibiotics for at least 24 hours, being fever-free, and showing significant improvement in health.
• However, the timing of returning to school also depends on the child's actual condition and the doctor's assessment.
• Parents should not allow children to return to school too early just because symptoms have subsided.

Always consult a doctor before allowing children to return to school

• Before deciding whether a sick child should go to school, discuss with a doctor to ensure the child:
  • Has completed the full course of treatment.
  • No longer poses a significant risk of spreading the illness.
  • Is healthy enough to participate in learning activities.
• Following a doctor's instructions not only helps children recover completely but also contributes to limiting the spread of strep throat in schools and the community.

Part 3: How to prevent illness from spreading to family members at home

Method 1: Avoid spreading colds to others

Not all cases of cold require sick leave or staying home from school

• If you only have a mild cold, no fever, no significant fatigue, and are healthy enough for daily activities, you generally do not need to take sick leave.
• However, the cold virus can still spread to others through droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces.
• If you are considering whether you should go to work sick or whether you should go to school sick, assess the severity of your symptoms and implement all necessary infection prevention measures if you still need to go to work or school.

Wash hands frequently

• Wash hands with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds, especially:
  • After coughing or sneezing.
  • After blowing your nose.
  • Before eating and after using the restroom.
• If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as recommended by health authorities.

Limit close contact with others

• During a cold, you should:
  • Avoid shaking hands, hugging, or close contact.
  • Maintain distance when possible, especially from the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with underlying conditions.
• This helps reduce the risk of virus spread in work and study environments.

Do not share food or drinks

• Avoid sharing:
  • Cups, mugs, or water bottles.
  • Spoons, chopsticks, and other eating utensils.
  • Partially eaten or drunk food/beverages.
• This is a simple yet effective way to limit the transmission of germs through saliva and respiratory secretions.

Cover your mouth properly when coughing or sneezing

• When coughing or sneezing:
  • Cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow.
  • Or use a disposable tissue and dispose of it immediately after use.
• Do not cover with your palm, as bacteria and viruses can cling to your hand and then spread to other surfaces or people.

Use tissues when you have a runny nose

• If you have a runny nose, use a clean tissue to wipe your nose and dispose of it immediately after each use.
• Afterward, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of germs to your hands, desks, doorknobs, or shared items.

Wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms

• If you must go to work or school with a mild cold, wear a mask when coughing, sneezing, or interacting with others.
• Masks help reduce the amount of droplets spread into the environment, thereby protecting those around you and helping to limit the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Monitor symptoms to decide whether to take time off

• If your cold worsens with symptoms such as a fever of 38°C or higher, severe coughing, difficulty breathing, or significant fatigue, consider taking sick leave and monitoring your health.
• In that case, the answer to should you go to work when sick or should you go to school when sick is usually to stay home to rest, recover, and reduce the risk of infecting the community.

Method 2: Maintain distance when sick

Limit close contact with others

• If you still have to go to work or school with only mild symptoms, proactively maintain distance from those around you.
• Many respiratory illnesses can be transmitted through droplets or close contact, so reducing contact is one of the most effective ways to limit infection.
• If you're wondering whether you should go to work when sick or whether you should go to school when sick, remember that even if you're well enough to work or study, you should still take precautions to protect the community.

Limit hugs or intimate contact

• While sick, you should avoid:
  • Hugging.
  • Unnecessary intimate contact.
• If others want to talk or greet you closely, you can politely explain that you're not feeling well and want to avoid spreading illness.

Maintain distance when talking

• When communicating:
  • Stand or sit a reasonable distance from the person you're talking to.
  • Avoid leaning in close to others when talking.
  • Do not lean over a colleague's computer screen or documents when discussing work.
• These habits help reduce the risk of spreading droplets when talking, coughing, or sneezing.

Wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms

• If you have a cough, sneeze, sore throat, or runny nose but still need to go out, wear a mask correctly.
• Masks help reduce the amount of droplets spread into the air, helping to protect colleagues, classmates, and those at high risk of severe illness.

Limit handshakes when greeting

• Instead of shaking hands, you can:
  • Nod hello.
  • Smile.
  • Wave or use other forms of greeting that don't require direct contact.
• This is a simple way to reduce the risk of transmitting viruses and bacteria through hands.

Combine with other preventive measures

• To reduce the risk of infection, combine maintaining distance with measures such as:
  • Washing hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer.
  • Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Not sharing food, drinks, and personal items.
• If symptoms become more severe, such as high fever, severe coughing, or difficulty breathing, you should take sick leave and stay home to rest instead of continuing to go to work or school. This will help your body recover faster and reduce the risk of spreading the illness to those around you.

Method 3: Cover your mouth properly when coughing or sneezing

Cover your mouth and nose every time you cough or sneeze

• When coughing or sneezing, droplets containing mucus, viruses, and bacteria can spread into the air and infect those around you.
• Therefore, whether at work, school, or in public, you should always cover your mouth and nose to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
• If you're wondering whether you should go to work when sick or whether you should go to school when sick, proper respiratory hygiene is essential if you still have to go out with mild symptoms.

Use a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing

• Follow these steps:
  • Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Dispose of the tissue immediately after use.
  • If you don't have a tissue, cover with the inside of your elbow instead of your palm.
• This helps prevent germs from clinging to your hands and reduces the risk of spread when touching surfaces or shaking hands with others.

Wear a mask if you cough or sneeze frequently

• If you cough or sneeze continuously and cannot fully control it, wear a snug-fitting mask to limit the spread of droplets.
• Masks are especially useful when traveling on public transport, going to work, or interacting with many people.
• However, if symptoms are severe, such as high fever, severe coughing, or difficulty breathing, you should take sick leave instead of trying to go to work or school.

Disinfect frequently touched surfaces

• Viruses and bacteria can survive on surfaces for a period, so regularly clean areas such as:
  • Work desks.
  • School desks.
  • Computer keyboards.
  • Computer mice.
  • Doorknobs.
  • Phones and shared devices.
• Using appropriate disinfectant solutions or wipes helps reduce the risk of germ transmission through contact.

Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing

• After each cough, sneeze, or handling of used tissues, wash your hands with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when water is unavailable.
• This is one of the simplest yet most effective measures to prevent viruses and bacteria from spreading to others.

Prioritize staying home if symptoms become severe

• If you develop a fever, severe coughing, difficulty breathing, or other signs of infectious disease, consider taking sick leave.
• In that case, the answer to should you go to work when sick or should you go to school when sick is usually to stay home for treatment and recovery, while also protecting the health of those around you.

Method 4: Wash your hands properly to prevent illness

Wash hands correctly

• Wash hands with clean running water and soap.
• Thoroughly scrub your entire hands, including:
  • Palms and back of hands.
  • Between fingers.
  • Fingertips and under fingernails.
  • Thumbs and wrists.
• Rub your hands continuously for at least 20 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel or disposable paper towel.
• This is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of virus and bacteria transmission.

Wash hands at important times

• Make it a habit to wash your hands:
  • Before preparing or eating food.
  • After using the toilet.
  • After blowing your nose.
  • After coughing or sneezing.
  • Before and after caring for someone who is sick.
  • After touching surfaces or shared objects such as doorknobs, keyboards, elevator buttons, or shopping carts.
• Washing hands at the right time helps prevent the spread of germs from your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Handwashing is simple yet very effective

• According to medical recommendations, proper handwashing is one of the most effective and cost-efficient measures for preventing infectious diseases.
• This habit helps reduce the risk of spreading many viral and bacterial diseases, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
• If you still have to go to work or school with only mild symptoms, frequent handwashing will help protect yourself and those around you.

Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available

• If you cannot wash your hands with soap, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with an appropriate concentration.
• When using:
  • Apply a sufficient amount of solution to your palm.
  • Rub all over the entire surface of both hands, including between fingers, fingertips, thumbs, and wrists.
  • Continue rubbing your hands until completely dry, which usually takes about 20–30 seconds.
• Hand sanitizer is most effective when hands are not heavily soiled or greasy.

Combine handwashing with other preventive measures

• Handwashing is more effective when combined with:
  • Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Wearing a mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms.
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth before washing your hands.
  • Maintaining distance from others if you show signs of illness.
• If you experience fever, severe cough, vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms that make you suspect an infectious disease, consider taking sick leave. In such cases, the answer to should you go to work when sick or should you go to school when sick is usually to stay home to recover and limit the spread of the illness to the community.

Part 4: When should you see a doctor immediately when sick?

Note 1: Warning signs to see a doctor immediately

Do not delay seeking medical attention if you have dangerous symptoms

• Most mild colds or flu cases can improve on their own after a few days. However, some infections can worsen or cause complications if not treated promptly.
• If you or a child has the following symptoms, go to a medical facility for examination as soon as possible.
• If you are wondering should you go to work when sick or should you go to school when sick, when these warning signs appear, the answer is no. The top priority is to be evaluated and treated by a doctor.

Shortness of breath or abnormally rapid breathing

• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Rapid or gasping breathing.
  • Feeling like you're not getting enough air at rest.
• These can be signs of serious medical conditions such as pneumonia, acute asthma, or cardiopulmonary diseases that require prompt treatment.

Cyanosis of the skin or lips

• A bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, or fingertips can be a sign that the body is not receiving enough oxygen.
• This is an emergency that requires immediate transportation to a medical facility.

Signs of dehydration

• Go to the hospital if you experience symptoms such as:
  • Severe dry mouth.
  • Very little urination or no urination for many hours.
  • Dizziness, extreme fatigue.
  • Sunken eyes or dry lips.
• Severe dehydration can occur after severe vomiting, prolonged diarrhea, or high fever.

Difficulty waking up or slow reactions

• If the patient is lethargic, difficult to wake up, reacts slowly, or loses consciousness, immediate emergency care is needed.
• These can be signs of severe infection or dangerous neurological conditions.

Unusual crying or inconsolable crying in children

• In young children, severe irritability, continuous crying, or being inconsolable can be signs of a worsening illness.
• Parents should not monitor at home if symptoms persist or are accompanied by high fever.

Prolonged fever or fever accompanied by rash

• Seek medical attention if:
  • Fever lasts more than 3 days.
  • Fever is accompanied by a skin rash.
• These signs may be related to infectious diseases that require early diagnosis and treatment.

Flu symptoms return after improving

• If flu-like symptoms improved but then:
  • Fever returns.
  • Cough worsens.
  • Increased fatigue.
• These can be signs of a secondary bacterial infection or complications such as pneumonia and require evaluation by a doctor.

Severe chest or abdominal pain

• Do not be complacent if you experience:
  • Chest pain or tightness.
  • Severe abdominal pain.
  • A feeling of pressure in the chest or abdomen.
• These symptoms can be related to serious medical conditions beyond common infections.

Dizziness or confusion

• If the patient experiences:
  • Severe dizziness.
  • Confusion.
  • Difficulty concentrating or altered consciousness.
• These can be signs of severe dehydration, lack of oxygen, or systemic infection and require immediate medical attention.

Severe vomiting or pain

• Go to a medical facility if you have:
  • Continuous vomiting, unable to keep down fluids or food.
  • Unusual fatigue, exhaustion.
  • Severe headache.
  • Very severe sore throat making swallowing or breathing difficult.
• These symptoms may require prescription medication or other medical supportive measures.

Do not arbitrarily delay treatment

• When serious warning signs appear, taking sick leave to see a doctor is necessary and more important than trying to go to work or school.
• Early detection and timely treatment help reduce the risk of complications, shorten recovery time, and protect the long-term health of both the patient and the community.

Note 2: When should a rash make you stay home?

Stay home if an unusual rash appears

• If you or a child has an unexplained rash, especially if the lesions spread rapidly or have oozing sores, take sick leave and contact a doctor for examination.
• Some infectious diseases can cause rashes and are easily spread to others. Therefore, do not go to work or school until a doctor determines that the condition is no longer contagious.
• If you are wondering should you go to work when sick or should you go to school when sick, a rash accompanied by unusual symptoms is a sign that should not be taken lightly.

Recognizing rash symptoms that require medical attention

• Go to a medical facility if the rash:
  • Spreads rapidly in a short time.
  • Has blisters or oozing sores.
  • Is accompanied by fever, sore throat, or fatigue.
  • Is very painful, hot, swollen, or shows signs of infection.
• Early identification of the cause helps choose appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

Allergic rashes are usually not contagious

• Not all rashes are infectious diseases.
• If the cause is an allergy and symptoms are well-controlled, the patient usually poses no risk of spreading it to others.
• In this case, if your health is stable and it does not affect your ability to study or work, you can resume normal activities as advised by your doctor.

Cover the rash if you still need to go to school or work

• For mild, non-contagious rashes that a doctor deems safe, you can:
  • Cover the affected skin area with clothing or clean bandages if appropriate.
  • Avoid scratching or touching the affected area.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after caring for the rash.
• These measures help limit skin irritation and reduce the risk of secondary infection.

Consult a doctor before returning to school or work

• If the cause of the rash is unclear, prioritize a medical examination before deciding to return to school or work.
• Only return when a doctor confirms that the condition is no longer contagious and your health is stable.
• Taking sick leave at the right time not only helps with more effective treatment but also protects others from the risk of infectious diseases if the rash is related to an infection.

Note 3: When should a child with ear pain stay home from school?

Take a child to the doctor if they have ear pain or ear discharge

• If a child has ear pain, or discharge or pus from the ear, parents should take the child to a medical facility for early examination.
• These can be signs of middle ear infection, outer ear infection, or other ear conditions that need to be diagnosed and treated correctly.
• If you are wondering should you go to school when sick, children with clear symptoms of ear pain should stay home from school for care and health monitoring.

Do not underestimate ear infections

• If not treated promptly, ear infections can lead to:
  • Prolonged pain.
  • Perforated eardrum.
  • Temporary or long-term hearing loss.
  • Spread to adjacent areas in rare cases.
• The doctor will evaluate the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Not all ear infections require antibiotics.

Ear pain affects a child's learning

• When experiencing ear pain, children often have difficulty with:
  • Concentrating on lectures.
  • Understanding lessons.
  • Participate in classroom activities.
• Additionally, the child may be fussy, tired, have trouble sleeping, or develop a fever, making school attendance unsuitable during the acute phase of the illness.

Keep your child home until their health stabilizes

• Parents should keep their child at home until:
  • Ear pain has significantly decreased.
  • Fever has subsided, if present.
  • The child is eating, sleeping, and engaging in normal activities.
  • A doctor confirms the child can return to school if necessary.
• If you are still wondering if a sick child should go to school, prioritize the child's health and follow the doctor's instructions.

Monitor for signs requiring emergency medical attention

• Take your child to a medical facility immediately if any of the following appear:
  • Severe ear pain that does not subside.
  • Significant pus or blood discharge from the ear.
  • Persistent high fever.
  • Redness and swelling behind the ear.
  • The child is lethargic, vomiting frequently, or showing signs of losing balance.
• Early detection and treatment help reduce the risk of complications, protect hearing, and allow the child to safely return to school sooner.

Note 4: Suspected Hepatitis A requires immediate medical attention

Take your child to a medical facility immediately if Hepatitis A is suspected

• If a child shows symptoms suggestive of Hepatitis A, parents should take them to a medical facility for examination and diagnosis as soon as possible.
• Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver and can spread through the digestive tract, especially when hand hygiene or food safety is not maintained.
• If you are wondering if a sick child should go to school, a child suspected of having Hepatitis A should not attend school to avoid infecting others.

Recognizing Hepatitis A symptoms

• Common signs include:
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Pain or discomfort in the right upper abdomen, where the liver is located.
  • Joint aches.
  • Dark urine.
  • Pale or clay-colored stools.
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).
• Some children may also have a low-grade fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain before jaundice appears.

Keep your child home from school during recovery

• After diagnosis and treatment, children usually need time for their liver to fully recover.
• The improvement process can last from one week or longer, depending on the severity of the illness and the child's general health.
• Parents should keep their child home from school until a doctor confirms that their health is stable and they can safely return to school.

Support your child's recovery

• During treatment, parents should:
  • Ensure the child gets adequate rest.
  • Ensure adequate hydration.
  • Supplement with a balanced diet as advised by the doctor.
  • Remind the child to wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before eating to limit virus transmission.
• Do not self-medicate the child, especially with drugs that may affect liver function, unless prescribed by a doctor.

Close monitoring and follow-up appointments as instructed

• Take your child for follow-up appointments as scheduled so the doctor can assess the liver's recovery process.
• If the child shows signs such as increased jaundice, frequent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, lethargy, or inability to eat or drink, take them to a medical facility immediately.
• When unsure if a sick child should go to school, prioritize following the doctor's instructions to protect the child's health and limit the risk of infection at school.

Important Notes When Sick

Consult a doctor if your child is ill

• When a child shows signs of illness, parents should take them to a pediatrician or medical facility for an accurate assessment of the cause and appropriate treatment instructions.
• Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate your child, as each illness requires a different approach.
• If you are still wondering if a sick child should go to school, prioritize following the doctor's recommendations before allowing your child to return to school.

Take medication strictly as directed by the doctor

• Use medication strictly according to:
  • Dosage.
  • Timing.
  • Method of administration as prescribed.
• Do not stop medication on your own when symptoms improve slightly, or increase the dose without consulting your doctor.
• Proper medication use leads to more effective treatment and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance or adverse effects.

Pregnant women and children need to be cautious with medication

• If you are pregnant or treating a child, consult a doctor before using:
  • Prescription medications.
  • Over-the-counter medications.
  • Herbal remedies or folk remedies.
• Some medications and natural products may not be safe during pregnancy or for young children, so do not use them without medical advice.

Discuss with your doctor if you are taking other medications

• If you are being treated for a chronic illness or taking daily medication, inform your doctor before adding any new medication, including:
  • Over-the-counter medications.
  • Vitamins and minerals.
  • Dietary supplements.
  • Herbal remedies or traditional medicines.
• Some medications can interact with each other, reducing treatment effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Stay home if you frequently interact with high-risk individuals

• If your job or studies frequently expose you to:
  • Young children.
  • Elderly people.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems.
  • Individuals with chronic diseases.
• You should consider taking sick leave if you show signs of an infectious disease, even if the symptoms are mild.
• If you are wondering if you should go to work when sick, the answer is often to stay home if you are at risk of spreading the illness to vulnerable groups. This not only helps you recover better but also contributes to protecting those at risk of severe complications if infected.

Prioritize your health and the community's well-being

• Resting at the right time, following treatment instructions, and only returning to work or school when your health has stabilized is how to protect yourself and those around you.
• If symptoms persist, become severe, or unusual signs appear, seek medical attention instead of continuing to self-treat at home.

References

1. World Health Organization. Infection prevention and control. Geneva: World Health Organization.
2. World Health Organization. Advice for the public: Protecting yourself and others from respiratory infections. Geneva: World Health Organization.
3. World Health Organization. Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI). Geneva: World Health Organization.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Respiratory Viruses: Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You're Sick. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When Students or Staff Are Sick. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinical Guidance for Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis). Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Impetigo: Clinical Information. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hepatitis A Questions and Answers for Health Professionals. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
11. American Academy of Pediatrics. Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools: A Quick Reference Guide. Itasca, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics.
12. American Academy of Pediatrics. Red Book: 2024–2027 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases. Itasca, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics.
13. National Health Service. NHS Guide to Childhood Illnesses and When to Keep Children Off School. London: National Health Service.
14. Mayo Clinic. Cold, Flu, COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Infections: Symptoms and Self-Care. Rochester, MN: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
15. Merck Manual Professional Edition. Approach to the Patient with Fever and Infectious Diseases. Rahway, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc.
16. BMJ Best Practice. Assessment of Acute Cough, Fever, Vomiting, Diarrhoea and Rash in Adults and Children. London: BMJ Publishing Group.
17. Bộ Y tế. Hướng dẫn chẩn đoán và điều trị các bệnh truyền nhiễm thường gặp. Hà Nội: Bộ Y tế Việt Nam.
18. Bộ Y tế. Khuyến cáo phòng, chống các bệnh lây truyền qua đường hô hấp và vệ sinh cá nhân. Hà Nội: Bộ Y tế Việt Nam.

Content edited by: Lesley Collins Tran.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Mia Taylor.