Do you have a sample policy statement for businesses who want to let folks know to stay home if they are sick?

You may want to consider using the type of message below.

In general, if you are sick with the flu, you should avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness.  Persons who are infected influenza may be ill for a week or longer.  With seasonal flu, people may be contagious from one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. 

With the exception of making trips to get medical care or for other necessities, you should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible.  This includes avoiding travel and not going to work or school, for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (Your fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine when returning to work.)

Always cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue to avoid spreading droplets on others.

Last Reviewed: 09/01/2011

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