What is a symptom that would require a food handler to stay home from work?

Diarrhea is a significant symptom that necessitates a food handler staying home from work because it can indicate the presence of gastrointestinal illness, which is highly contagious and poses a serious risk to food safety. When a person experiences diarrhea, it raises concerns about pathogens that could be transmitted through food, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses.

Maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of such illnesses in a food handling environment is critical, as contaminated food can adversely affect customers and lead to widespread health issues. This is emphasized by food safety regulations and guidelines, which specifically recommend that individuals exhibiting gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, refrain from food handling activities until they are symptom-free for a determined period, usually 24 hours.

In contrast, symptoms like a headache, fatigue, or a cough, while they may indicate that a person is unwell, do not necessarily suggest a risk of transmitting foodborne illnesses in the same way that diarrhea does. It is essential for food handlers to assess their health conditions accurately and to prioritize the safety of food and patrons.