When should food workers with transmittable illnesses return to work?

The correct approach is that food workers should return to work only when they are fully recovered. This is vital for food safety and public health, as individuals with transmittable illnesses can still pose a risk of contagion even after symptoms have subsided or they may feel better. Full recovery ensures that the worker is no longer contagious and that they can safely resume their duties without endangering others.

While seeking a doctor’s approval can be beneficial and is often recommended, it is not a standalone indicator of readiness to return to work, as some medical professionals may clear individuals without confirming full recovery. Similarly, relying solely on the subsiding of symptoms or the worker’s personal feeling of being better does not guarantee that they are no longer capable of transmitting illness. Ensuring full recovery helps maintain rigorous health standards in food service settings, minimizing the risk of outbreaks related to foodborne illnesses.