I almost always have a case of the sniffles or sneezes, even on my allergy medication. It is nowhere near as bad as it was in my pre-medicine days, but nevertheless constantly present. Now when I go into a store and sniffle a little bit I notice people looking at me a little different. Almost like they think I might have the plague. Of course, that’s because it is possible that I am carrying something contagious that is being reported as potentially deadly. Just because I know I don’t have Swine Flu, doesn’t mean they know I don’t have it.
I’m tempted to explain to everyone who hears me sniffle, that it really is ok and that I’ve had allergies for as long as I’ve been breathing. Unfortunately, I don’t think most people want to get close enough to hear me explain. You know, just in case. The sad thing is I totally understand. If I hear a cough or a sneeze or a hoarse throat I want to spray the person down with Lysol and take a dip in some Purel. This isn’t a rational reaction, I know that. But it is a common reaction. So what’s a girl with seasonal allergies to do? Not to mention a girl who is also afraid of catching the Swine Flu, or any other crazy bug that happens to be lying around.
What I do is mostly avoid people, especially now. I know people are worried and my sniffles might make it worse so I’m not going to stores or business very much during the day. I go shopping at night at one of the 24 hour stores or order online. Of course I’m not just doing it for the people who think my allergies are Swine Flu, I’m also doing it because I don’t want other peoples germs. Paranoid is my middle name, too. That’s probably why I don’t mind those sideways glances and abrupt retreats when people see me with Kleenex.
Has anyone ever mistaken your allergies for Swine flu, or other contagious illness? What do you do when people shy away from you just because of your seasonal allergies?
Photo Credit: jere-me
Thu, Apr 30, 2009
Allergy Symptoms