How do you know if you’re too sick to go to work? Should you tough it out and make that money, or take care of yourself and stay in bed today? With the flu season in Phoenix in full swing, it’s sometimes hard to make that decision, and sometimes harder when the boss wants a doctor’s note. Getting a note from your Phoenix physician is easy, it’s deciding whether to make that appointment and miss work or not that ‘s difficult. So, the expert doctors at Family Practice Specialists have put together a list of considerations for making this decision.
To Stay Home Or Not…
In today’s workplace environment, a day off is more than a luxury, it’s a miracle. Days off for vacation, even time off for lunch, are nearly impossible to come by. But, with the flu season coming on so strongly this year in Arizona, there are times when you’ll need to take your own health and the health of your family into focus. At times like these, your priorities need to change from making money to playing it safe. When you miss one day over one week, your boss will understand.
Ask yourself the following questions when considering staying home or not: Would you be a danger to others? Is your judgment impaired? Are you thinking clearly? Is your lack of productivity going to hurt the company? And do you think you’re contagious? (Huffington Post)
Let’s get serious about this. The 2013 flu season is not over yet, and according to the CDC, it hasn’t even peaked. And not only has it not peaked yet, Phoenix doctors are seeing some of the strongest cases of the flu in recent years.
In ‘normal’ flu season cycles, we’d be reaching the peak and perhaps even on the down side of the flu. However, this year we are ‘about five week ahead of the average flu season,’ claimed the CDC.
According to Google Flu Trends, Arizona is seeing a very high influx of flu cases this year. The 2009 – 2010 season still accounts for the worst flu season, yet this flu season in Arizona is nearly as bad.
With that said, it’s important to make an appointment with your Phoenix physician to discuss your options. Should you go to work today? Tomorrow? How long should you take off? Are you contagious? Will resting at home protect you, your family and your co-workers? These are questions that you and your doctor need to discuss.
If you’re not sure whether it’s the flu or just the common cold, make an appointment today! Give us a call at 602.955.8700 or visit our offices located at 4350 E. Camelback Rd., Ste F100, Phoenix, AZ 85018.