Final answer:
Employees should stay home for at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhea or vomiting and may return to work once they are symptom-free and deemed non-contagious, following local public health guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
An employee can safely return to work after an episode of diarrhea or vomiting once they are symptom-free and have been without symptoms for a specific period, which can vary based on the cause of their illness. If the cause was a bacterial or viral infection such as norovirus or Salmonella, it is important to ensure that the person is no longer contagious. The general recommendation is to stay home for at least 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhea. However, the exact time may depend on the severity of the illness, if they are still experiencing significant symptoms, and whether a medical professional has determined they are free of infection and dehydration has been resolved.
This period of rest allows the body to recover and reduces the risk of spreading potentially infectious agents. It is essential to follow good hygiene practices, such as thorough hand washing, to prevent transmission to others. Employers should consult local public health guidelines and possibly their occupational health advisor for specific return-to-work policies.