In the early 1990s, I lived in Japan, and was taken aback the first few times I saw people get on the subway, and go about their daily business wearing surgical-type masks whenever they were sick. Over time, I started to realize what a smart practice this was. This time of year, I wish my fellow Americans would put medical masks on as they sneeze and cough spreading their germs all around. 

So, is it okay to call in sick with a common cold? Should you tough it out and keep working or go back to bed—for everybody’s sake? Having a cold doesn’t really warrant a day off; or does it? Rachel Suff, senior policy adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), suggests, “If you are really not well and your symptoms mean you are not going to be productive, it’s better to [call in] sick [rather than] spreading your germs around the workplace.” It’s also important to remember to “be more mindful of those with severely compromised immune systems” or those caring for others with compromised immune systems. 

If you still can’t shake that cold, don’t be afraid to take the day off. You (and your co-workers) will be glad you did. Read More Here