In this post-pandemic world, the fear of COVID-19 has led to a phenomenon known as "sick shaming," where even the slightest cold symptoms can result in social outcast status. To avoid embarrassment, symptomatic individuals are resorting to the overuse of allergy and cold medicines, potentially spreading germs further and risking their own health in the process, according to a report by Bloomberg.

The report highlights a significant increase in the consumption of cold and flu medications, which make up about a quarter of the category, with a notable 30% gain. Some brands have even launched campaigns encouraging consumers to stock up on over-the-counter (OTC) meds so they can continue their daily lives despite experiencing symptoms. However, it should be noted that certain drugs, like Sudafed, have been proven ineffective against the common cold.

Psychology researcher, Simon Williams, from Swansea University, conducted studies on the pandemic's impact on social behaviors. His findings revealed that there is an increased sense of being judged for coughing or sneezing, even if the symptoms are not contagious. This fear of stigma has led individuals like Courtney Berentsen, a product manager in the San Francisco Bay Area, to face dilemmas in the workplace. Berentsen, who suffers from non-contagious chronic cough due to asthma, expressed concern about setting a bad precedent by calling in sick, as her cough may last for weeks.

While the impact of COVID-19 has encouraged people to avoid social situations out of fear of being judged, it has not stopped productivity in the workforce. With the majority of individuals working from home during the pandemic, it has become normalized to continue working even while sick, within the confines of their isolated homes. However, the practice of working through illness takes a toll on individuals and may lead to the unnecessary use of medication, perpetuating a vicious cycle of overuse.

Overconsumption of medications poses risks to both physical and mental health. Taking an unnecessary amount of medication can potentially harm a person's well-being and increase the risk of adverse side effects. Jennifer Bourgeois, a clinical pharmacist at SingleCare, an online pharmacy platform, emphasized the fear surrounding overlapping symptoms between common colds and COVID-19, resulting in a knee-jerk reaction to use medications and heightening the risks of side effects.

Berentsen's case exemplifies the challenges faced by individuals who rely on medication to manage non-contagious chronic conditions. She takes Mucinex to address her asthma symptoms, even though it may not be necessary for her chronic disease. The uncertainty surrounding return-to-work policies further complicates the decision-making process for individuals like Berentsen.

The widespread stigma associated with illness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in the overuse of cold and flu medications. While individuals may seek to defend against social judgment, the consequences of this trend include potential health risks, perpetuated cycles of overmedication, and the inappropriate use of drugs that may not address the underlying conditions. As societies navigate the post-pandemic world, it becomes crucial to address the systemic issues surrounding sickness stigma and promote responsible healthcare practices.