Take a Sick Day!

How many of us have gone to work sick when we knew we should be home resting? We’ve all done it, but we shouldn’t. According to a 2016 Cornell University study published in Health Services Research, up to three million U.S. employees each week work when they are sick. Taking a sick day is not a crime — some days you actually should take a day off work! When you go to work sick you not only risk getting sicker but also spreading germs to your coworkers.

Two people sick in bed

Take a day or so for yourself by following these simple tips:

  • Pay Attention to Your Body — Know Your Symptoms. Take care of those body aches, fever, headaches, congestion, cough, etc.
  • Hydrate and Eat Well. The one thing you need most when you are feeling sick is water. The same goes for proper nourishment. Eat what you can while giving your body something nutritious.
  • Stay in Bed. Do as little as possible — rest, rest, rest! Your body needs its resources to fight off infections and colds. Let it do its job.
  • Unplug. Once you’ve called off work, unplug from your electronics. Stress may have contributed to your illness in the first place. And if you can, turn off your work email. 
  • See your Doctor. Not every illness requires a visit to your doctor, but you should keep an eye on your symptoms. Delaying a provider visit can drive up health care costs if your sickness becomes worse.
Author
Denver Health Medical Plan Staff Writer


The information contained on this blog is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained, expressed or implied in this blog, is intended as medical advice nor should it be construed as such. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, medical diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician or health care provider. It is not meant to and does not cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects and reliance on the information on this blog is at your own risk. Always talk to your doctor or other qualified health care provider about any concerns or questions you have about your medical care and do not disregard professional medical advice based on the information herein. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.