I’m Positive That You Should Stay Away

When my son tests positive for [Contagious Illness], I let my family know that we will not be attending my niece’s birthday party, citing the reason why. A few days later, I also test positive. At the time, I am having a few days off from my job.

This is the second time I have had it, and I want to make sure my mother doesn’t try to visit like she did the last time, so I send a message to my brother.

Me: “Hey, just letting you know I have tested positive. Make sure that Mum doesn’t try to visit this time.”

Brother: “Oh, wow! Do you know who you caught it off?”

Huh? Duh?

A few minutes later, Mum calls.

Mum: “How did you test positive? You can’t catch it twice.”

Me: “Yes, you can.”

Mum: “Are you feeling sick?”

Me: “No, not yet.”

Mum: “So, why did you get tested if you’re not sick?”

Me: “Because [Son] has it.”

Mum: “But you’re not sick, so what made you go?”

Me: “Uh, I have to get tested before I go back to work.”

It’s the law.

Mum: “I still don’t understand why you would go if you weren’t sick.”

Me: “I had a sore throat.”

I pretty much permanently have a sore throat due to reflux.

Mum: “Okay, that explains it. Do you need anything?”

Me: “No, thanks. Do not come over.”

Mum: “Are you sure?”

Me: “Yes.”

Honestly, I had to shake my head over all of this. She also tried visiting another niece when she had it. My parents don’t tend to believe it’s that bad because no one they know has died. My father believed the same about Asbestosis until his best friend and sister both died from it.