In a Heartbeat: Dr. Marc Itskowitz
The issue: As the weather changes, more people will start getting cold and flu symptoms. Some will stay home, others will go to work, unleashing their germs on everyone. Dr. Marc Itskowitz, primary care specialist at Allegheny Health Network, provides insight on this yearly predicament.
Should I go to work while sick?
People should not go to work if they are sick, especially during flu season. If you have a fever or an active cough, you are more likely to spread the virus. In general, you should not return to work until your fever has resolved for at least 24 hours.
Does the flu involve any gastrointestinal symptoms?
Although influenza usually causes prominent respiratory symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion and sore throat, some patients will experience gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If these symptoms do occur, it is important to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration, a common complication of the flu.