Chest infection

[Frenchieb3]

I’ve currently got a chest infection (since Monday). I have been prescribed a weeks worth of steroids and antibiotics off the doctor.

Do I need to stay off work until I have finished my medication and the infection goes because of Covid.? I work in education which makes me a little nervous

This is my second dose of steroids and antibiotics since March. I am really unsure what to do as I have only been living with asthma for just over a year.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[madonbrew]

If you’re feeling rough and have steroids because you can’t breathe well then maybe you need to take a few days off anyway. I’m not sure in regards to Covid. Hope you’re feeling better soon!

[Frenchieb3 in reply to madonbrew]

Thank you

[twinkly29]

My inclination would be no ....if you had a cold or sore throat or other non-covid illness you would presumably just carry on.....but that's just a hunch not anything officially medical !

I agree with madonbrew though regarding being well enough with the chest infection - if you're not fit for work in that respect then you should be off.

[Frenchieb3 in reply to twinkly29]

Thank you

[EmmaF91 Community Ambassador]

My inclination is the same as the others. If you’re feeling rough/symptomatic and not fit to be teaching then you shouldn’t be in. But (hopefully) you’ll start feeling better before the end of the course, and unless you are told otherwise (by occy health/whoever or by GP) I’d be back at work so long as you are happy and comfortable to do so.

I do advise speaking to whoever you need to at school tho. They will probably have more specific advice for returning 😅

Hope this helps

[Frenchieb3 in reply to EmmaF91]

Thank you

[Foxy79]

Hello I reckon you should rest few days and finish your course of antibiotics would keep you on safe side and back up on your feet it's common to get chest infection for people like us with weak immune system I hope I haven't offended you by in any way if soo sorry I was trying to help

[Frenchieb3 in reply to Foxy79]

No not at all. Thank you 😀

[SteveLondon]

Don't normally prescribe anti biotics as well these days , just the steroids on my last 3 occasions as at explained at my recent hospital stay. Stick with that for now , you don't want to take anti biotics if not required though.

[Frenchieb3 in reply to SteveLondon]

Yes, I have just had the steroids as I thought that would be enough. Seems to be working, thank you 🙂