What should members do if they have had unprotected exposure to communicable diseases?

When a member has had unprotected exposure to communicable diseases, the immediate priority is to ensure their health and the health of others. Seeking treatment at an emergency room is crucial because it allows for a professional medical evaluation and potential immediate interventions that can mitigate the risk of contracting the disease or spreading it to others. Emergency rooms are equipped to handle such incidents and can provide necessary treatments, such as post-exposure prophylaxis or vaccinations, depending on the nature of the exposure.

In contrast, seeking treatment at home does not ensure that the individual receives the appropriate medical care required in such situations. Reporting to a supervisor is important for procedural purposes and may be necessary, but it does not address the immediate health concerns arising from potential exposure. Waiting for symptoms to appear poses significant risk, as many communicable diseases can have an incubation period during which the individual is contagious without showing any signs of illness. Therefore, immediate medical attention is essential in response to unprotected exposure to ensure swift and effective intervention.