By Katie-Ann Gupwell
Copyright manchestereveningnews
A Costa worker recently tested positive for Covid-19, and the predicament has left her stunned, despite a new variant currently circulating . The woman claims she informed her manager about her positive coronavirus test as she believed she ought to take time off work, but his reaction completely shocked her. She described feeling quite poorly since falling ill, yet her boss allegedly expects her to turn up for work and continue as usual. She shared her dilemma on Reddit , believing Costa would be better served without her presence until she recovers, though the topic has sparked considerable debate online. Writing in a Costa forum, without identifying the particular branch, she stated: “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?” Hundreds of people have responded to the post since it was published, with customers providing different suggestions. Public opinion on the issue was quite split. One individual commented: “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 person 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 individual 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 added: “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 clarifies that 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 guidance on what to do if you test positive. It advises people to 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 states: “Children and young people tend to be infectious for less time than adults.” If you’re aged 18 or above, it’s recommended that you stay home and avoid contact with others for five days. Additionally, you should refrain from meeting individuals who are more susceptible to severe illness from infections, such as those with a compromised immune system, for 10 days after taking your test. Acas provides further 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 accessed on the website. Costa has also been approached for a comment.
