If a food handler has a sore throat and fever, what should be done?

When a food handler presents with a sore throat and fever, it is crucial for public health and food safety that they do not work with food. This scenario indicates a potential illness that could be contagious and may pose a risk of foodborne illness transmission.

Excluding the food handler from work is an essential practice to prevent the spread of pathogens that can arise from infections, especially when symptoms like a sore throat and fever are present. These symptoms can suggest conditions such as strep throat or other viral infections, which can be transmitted through food or food contact surfaces if proper hygiene practices are not followed.

By ensuring that the food handler is not working, the risk of contaminating food and jeopardizing the health of customers is mitigated, adhering to guidelines set forth by health and safety regulations in the food service industry.

This approach protects not only the customers but also the overall reputation of the food establishment. Ensuring that ill employees remain home until they are symptom-free helps maintain a safe environment in which food is prepared and served.