When should a medical examiner sign off on a driver who has experienced a respiratory illness?

A medical examiner should sign off on a driver who has experienced a respiratory illness after undergoing a physical examination. This examination is critical as it allows the medical examiner to assess the driver’s overall health, particularly focusing on the respiratory function. The physical exam is essential to determine if the driver is fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely, considering the potential impact of the illness on their ability to perform necessary tasks effectively.

While having a physician's note may provide useful information, it does not replace the need for a thorough examination by the medical examiner, who may identify issues that need further evaluation. Clearance from a specialist can be part of the process, particularly if the respiratory illness has had significant impacts, but it’s not always a prerequisite. Lastly, the status of the driver's current medical certificate does matter, but it doesn't directly determine if the driver can return to work after an illness, especially one that affects respiratory health. Thus, the emphasis is on the examination to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the driver's fitness for duty.