I also feel very upset when I find out that my coworkers are sick and end up coming and breathing over my desk. But I also don’t say anything right away I tried to let them know that I’m on happy that they are there because I have to auto immune diseases and I get very sick and I can die so if they are sick please stay away. I laughed afterwards so it seems like a joke but I’m pretty sure they know I’m serious

I hear your anxiety and we need to be careful, but I choose to socialize. If we eat well, exercise as well as take our meds, I don't worry alot. Be thoughtful but don't over think these situations. Anxiety effects me more than a luncheon... best wishes.

Thanks for your input, @A myRAteam Member. I also try to put a lighter spin on things, like asking people to keep their distance. I find these situations hard to navigate sometimes...I understand that it's hard to miss work when you're sick with a cold or infection nd I hate to put people in uncomfortable situations. It's a fact of life that I will be exposed to sick people and I never want to make anyone feel bad for that. But I also feel like as a person with a chronic illness, I have somewhat of a duty to spread awareness about putting people with suppressed immune systems at unnecessary risk of getting sick. It's tough because I feel like there's such a negative view out there of chronically ill people already, especially in the workplace, as being needy and overcautious (not my view, just what I've experienced). *sigh*

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A myRAtea...

Hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes. I clean everything with the wipes especially door knobs light switched and cabinet and fridge handles. And I use a lot of hand sanitizer. In my house and in my truck.

I use nasal rinses as much as I can, hoping to wash germs away.
Hand washing often or use hand sanitizers.
I always have more than one bandana in my bag - I put an essential oil on them, maybe put them in a ziplock bag, and take the bandana out to smell them. It lifts my spirits but also I think it helps destroy any germs that could be there.
I try to avoid shaking hands and if I can’t avoid it, I offer my left hand. Let it be the dirty hand.
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