QuestionHi Doctor, Everyday doctors have contact with sick people who have contagious diseases yet I presume that most doctors are not continually struggling with illnesses caught from their patients. Any theories as to why doctors stay reasonable healthy and are not continually sick with flus, colds, etc. Thanks.
AnswerDoug,
Who says we are not? Physicians and Nurses and other healthcare workers may be as sick or sicker per capita as the average "joe" on the street. However, we tend to know when to seek treatment and may do so earlier. Also we know about the "germ theory" and take measures to avoid bacterial and viral inoculation from fomites and people.
Most doctors are not employees and as such do not get paid time off... so when sick, we usually work through it. I have never taken a sick day in 10 years.
Often times I am sicker than the people I treat in the ER.
Hope that helps.
JP Saleeby, MD
