What symptoms must food workers displaying them be excluded from work when serving a susceptible population?

Food workers displaying a sore throat with fever must be excluded from work when serving a susceptible population because this combination of symptoms can indicate a transmissible illness that poses a significant risk to individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic health conditions. The presence of fever along with a sore throat specifically suggests potential infections, such as streptococcal throat infections, which can be contagious.

When working with vulnerable populations, it is crucial to minimize the risk of spreading infections, as they may not withstand illnesses that healthy individuals can typically recover from. In these settings, ensuring that food workers are symptom-free helps maintain the health and safety of those being served.