What symptom requires a food handler to be excluded from the operation?

A food handler exhibiting jaundice must be excluded from the operation because jaundice is a clear indication of a liver problem, often related to infectious diseases such as hepatitis A. This condition can pose a significant risk of transmission of foodborne illnesses. When a food handler shows signs of jaundice, it signifies a potential contamination risk to food and food surfaces due to the pathogens that could be present in their body, especially when the worker is preparing or handling food.

While fever, nausea, and vomiting can also be concerning symptoms that may require attention, they do not necessarily mandate exclusion in every case or signal a direct risk of spreading illnesses like jaundice does. Fever and nausea can often accompany many minor illnesses that aren't foodborne pathogens, while vomiting may necessitate exclusion, especially if it is severe or persistent, but jaundice is a more serious and identifiable symptom that necessitates immediate action to protect public health.