Many of us hate taking sick days, and would rather suffer out our bout of flu at work than stay in bed. But apparently, sneezing all over your boss isn't a good career move. If you are suffering from a seasonal cough, cold or full-blown flu, it's best to ditch the guilt and stay in bed as research confirms that the majority of South African employers believe you?ll be more productive after taking a sick day.

A recent poll commissioned by the makers of Benylin confirms that most employers agree that their staff are more productive if they take a sick day to recover from illness.

Of the 400 employers interviewed, six out of 10 agreed that it would be better if their staff took a day off sick rather than come to work, and 60 percent of bosses felt employees were more productive if they took a sick day with 65 percent of general managers and 63 percent of company owners agreeing, as confirmed by TNS Research Surveys who conducted the poll.

By ignoring the early warning signs of colds and flu, only to compete with a runny nose and rising fever when chasing deadlines at the office, you are at risk of developing serious complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis which may lead to hospitalisation or even death.

High-risk groups who should not take colds and flu lightly include young children and the elderly over 65 years. Adults suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease and immune deficiency states should also take it easy when their immune system has taken a knock.

So now that you have decided to stay home, how do you get better faster?

Get well tips:

• Stay away from alcohol as it can actually cause nasal congestion.
• Take a steamy shower to moisturise your nasal passages and help you relax. If you're feeling dizzy, wait until you are steadier on your feet.
• Eat garlic. Take a large peeled clove of garlic and bite down every so often to release the natural juices. Replace with a new clove every four or five hours.
• Warm salt water can help break nasal congestion and remove virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Mix ? teaspoon of salt and ? teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of warm water. Use a bulb syringe to squirt water into your nose while closing the other nostril with light finger pressure. Let it drain. Repeat two to three times, then treat the other nostril.
• Breathe warm steam. Add an essential oil of eucalyptus, found at any pharmacy, to aid the effect.
• A humidifier can help you breath easier.
• Indulge in spicy foods. Thai, Indian or even anything with added pepper can help to open up your blocked nasal passages both naturally and deliciously.
• A dab of mentholated ointment under your nose can open breathing passages and help restore the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor all can relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw!

Enjoy your day off!