What action should food handlers take if they are experiencing symptoms of illness?

Food handlers experiencing symptoms of illness should notify their supervisor and stay home. This action is crucial for ensuring food safety and preventing the spread of illness. When someone is symptomatic, they may carry pathogens that can contaminate food or surfaces, posing a significant risk to customers and fellow employees. By informing their supervisor, appropriate measures can be taken to manage workloads and maintain hygiene standards, as well as protect the health of others. Staying home also allows the affected individual time to recover without compromising the health and safety of others in the workplace.