By Katie-Ann Gupwell

Copyright birminghammail

A Costa employee recently tested positive for Covid-19, and the situation has left her in a sticky situation, particularly as a new variant is known to be circulating . The woman claimed she informed her boss about her positive coronavirus test and suggested taking some time off work, but his response left her completely taken aback. She explained that she’s felt quite poorly since falling ill, but her boss allegedly wants her to continue working as usual. She shared her predicament on Reddit, believing that Costa would be better off without her until she recovers, but her post has sparked a significant divide among online users. Posting anonymously in a Costa thread, while not naming the branch, she said: “Hey, I’ve been ill for a few days and just tested positive for Covid . It’s hitting me pretty hard. I told my manager, and he said I can still work, and it just counts as a normal absence. “I’ve got a shift tomorrow, but I don’t think it’s safe or fair to come in while I’m this unwell and contagious. Is this really how Costa handles it? Has anyone else dealt with this? What should I do?” The post has garnered hundreds of responses since it was shared, with customers offering a range of opinions. People’s views on the matter were decidedly split. One person wrote: “You shouldn’t be working if you’re ill, even if asymptomatic, as you could be passing on germs that could affect an immunocompromised person worse than you, especially in such a customer-facing role.” Another individual shared their experience, adding: “This happened to me when I worked with children and babies. The managers wanted me in. I just took the time off as I felt dreadful, and wouldn’t forgive myself if I’d passed that onto a vulnerable child. If you feel like c**p, stay home and get better.” A third person advised: “You’re ill, stay off and get a doctor’s note. I don’t understand (particularly food chain) workplaces that insist on staff coming in sick. You’re just spreading it, and not getting the chance to rest and recover.” However, another person offered a different perspective, stating: “I’m not sure the manager here is forcing them to work. I think they’re saying you can work if well enough. If you’re not, it’s a sickness absence. I’m currently struck down with Covid and feel s**t, so I’m off work. I didn’t need work to tell me to be off as I’m responsible for my own health.” Another also commented: “If you feel too unwell to work, don’t work. Not many places have a Covid policy anymore as few people are testing.” The government website confirms there are currently no Covid-19 restrictions in the UK; however, if you have Covid-19, you should try to stay at home. The NHS website also provides advice on what to do if you test positive. It recommends that people should try and stay at home and avoid contact with others for three days after the day the test was taken if you, or your child, are under 18. It further adds: “Children and young people tend to be infectious for less time than adults.” If you’re 18 or over, it’s recommended that you stay home and avoid contact with others for five days. Additionally, you should refrain from meeting people who are more susceptible to severe illness from infections, such as those with a weakened immune system, for 10 days after taking your test. Acas also provides guidance, stating: “If someone finds out they’ve tested positive for Covid-19 (coronavirus) or has Covid symptoms, they should tell their employer. “‘Self-isolating’ (staying at home) is no longer a legal requirement. But, if someone has Covid symptoms or has tested positive, they should follow government guidance and any policy their organisation has.” More information can be found on the website. Costa has also been approached for comment.