Asthma and self Isolation

[Dumakey]

I appreciate that this has already been covered but I genuinely don't know what to do for the best.

I have had Asthma all my adult life, it is generally well controlled with inhalers, however, every year I get a cold I always develop a chest infection that has to be treated with antibiotics. Last January (2019) I contracted the flu and it put me in hospital.

I am due to go to work on Sunday, only work part-time, in a busy customer facing role and am terrified.

I have been following the social distancing rules and haven't been going out or mixing with friends/family, children are home from school.

Will I lose my job if I decide to isolate?

[Forza14]

The jury’s out on how much the virus affects asthmatics, but I would consider you vulnerable.

Self-isolate and, if it helps, just tell work you or one of the kids has a cough.

Put yourself first.

[Dumakey]

Thank you for your replies.

It's so difficult to know what to do. I don't want to be seen as a drama Queen trying to get out of working. To be honest, with the kids home indefinitely work will provide a level of sanity.

[Jj2431]

I wouldn't go in. Not worth the risk. I'm not coping with my husband still working in an office as I have asthma. I wish he didnt have to go in :(

[Wetcarparkrain]

My asthma is not as bad as that and I would have to think twice about doing that. you should not go.

Put it this way - why would you avoidably put yourself at the risk of taking up an icu bed when it is (or should be) completely acceptable for someone fairly recently hospitalised with a lung issue to be self-isolating at home.

It must be a very stressful situation for you. It is actually quote hard for conscientious people to get their head round the fact that not going to work is not a selfish act but a sensible one!

[caringcarer]

No, your employer has a duty under health and safety of staff. Ring in and tell tnem you are self isolating for 12 weeks due to cronuc asthma. I get it too. Last year I had to be put on to a nebulizer twice and hospitalised once. I know how scary it is to gasp for every breath. Do not put yourself at risk as this Covid19 virus attacks the lungs and airways. Stay home, stay safe.