any advice?

[catp819]

I'm new to the forum, I don't think my case is as intense as some of yours probably is, but I do have little freak out sessions myself. I was just getting better (I usually only freak out during the winter time) because it was finally nice out and the "stomach bug" that goes around usually is only around here then. WELL... I came into work yesterday at 3pm and found out the guy before me went home sick at 8:30am. He didn't get sick HERE, he was only here for an hour and a half and the woman who covered for him from 8:30-3 said she wiped things down with my wipes I have here (she knows my problem). I am wondering if any of you have done the research I have done and can answer some of my lingering thoughts/worries about this.

First: I have tried so many times to figure out how a countertop would be contaminated with the virus, is it only if the infected person v* on it? or near it? Or is it really as bad as he just has to touch it (he washes his hands a lot).

Second: How likely do you think it is that I would get it from him? He was gone 6.5 hours before I got here, the windows/doors were open all day, the counters were wiped down (not with bleach, but with something) and he didn't actually get sick here.

I only get crazy with this particular bug. I don't freak out if other people have gotten so drunk that they get sick because I know them getting sick won't be contagious for me, I only get crazy with the bug. Any opinions or thoughts on convincing myself I'd be okay?

OH... on a side note, I've been wondering for a while, when you respond could you put how long you've had your phobia? and if you've ever gotten the stomach virus since you've had it? It might help me out a little bit. I've had my phobia for about... 8 years I think, it's only recently gotten really bad. Please help! Thanks!

[olschesky]

you should be pretty safe with working....especially since the person didn't v there.......i'm sure he washed his hands before coming to work.
i'm like you.....drunk people v dont bother me much........or people v from chemo or something like that......it's just this damn sv........i'm glad that spring is here.....hopefully the sv will be gone

i have had emet for almost 50 years........of course, didn't know what it was till a few years ago.......it subsided quite a bit in my 20s and mid 30s....but back again.

i have had a sv in those years........was hoping it would end the fear....but in my case,,,,no such luck.

welcome to the site.....

try not to worry too much