Teammate touching herself inside her pants - Hygiene Concern

[kalgal143]

I am asking this question for how to handle a special situation I find myself in.

I am working in a small team for an extended project. We have a small work space, so perhaps this contributes to the problem.

We have found one of our teammates has an unusual tic, where she constantly is reaching into her pants. This is not simply a small thing, but happens for extended periods of time. It is very awkward and a difficult situation to handle. We are also concerned for our general hygiene. I tried to solve this by providing a large bottle of hand sanitizer, but she refuses to use it because she thinks it causes super-germs and claims we are going to get her sick if we use it too much.

It has been too awkward to say something so far, but I feel like I have to. Is there a special condition / something I should be aware of? I really don't know what to do.

Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

[Pantx]

Best stay out of the line of fire on that one and let HR handle it

[Pataka]

I would either take her aside and tell her about it, or if you don't feel comfortable talking to her about it (and I don't blame you one bit if that is the case) I would raise it with her line manager.

[kezza242]

If i was in this situation i would definitely say something. Take her to one side and tell her what she does, why the sanitizer was bought. She might not even realise she is doing it. I'm sure she will be embarrassed about the situation even more so than you.

Good luck.