TB traveler stirs up ethics of illness debate

Many toe the fine line between dedication, inconsiderateness while sick..

Maybe Andrew Speaker, flying abroad despite a dangerous strain of tuberculosis, took things too far. But many people push the limits by staying active when they’re sick. Depending on circumstances, the choice can be seen as laudable, inconsiderate — or downright criminal.

At the office, coughing and sneezing workaholics might earn a thank you from a boss for their dedication, but dirty looks from co-workers worried about catching the bug. Athletes who compete while sick are sometimes praised for grit, but may risk infecting teammates.

And then there are people who know they are HIV positive, yet press ahead with unprotected sexual encounters with partners who’ve been kept in the dark.

Speaker, now quarantined at a Denver hospital, knew he had a drug-resistant strain of TB before he flew to Europe for his wedding and honeymoon last month, but says he was advised before departure that he wasn’t contagious.

Yes, I have met far too many people whose only generosity is with their illnesses. Generally, when asked why they are out while they are sick, they say they 'will manage'.

I wish they would keep their problems at home so others could manage...