This Flu Season Is Deadly – Are You Keeping Employees Safe?

January 23, 2018

This year’s flu season started early and swept across the nation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says it may soon reach epidemic proportions, peaking sometime in February. The outbreak could be particularly deadly because much of the nation is experiencing extreme cold. Follow these steps to protect your employees, your customers and yourself from infection.

Promote Frequent Hand Washing

It seems like you wouldn’t have to remind professional adults to wash their hands regularly during cold and flu season, but a number of studies indicate people aren’t as conscientious as you’d think. An ABC News study found while 95 percent of Americans claim they watch their hands, only 67 percent actually do. That means a few people at your facility are probably carrying more germs than necessary.

Offer Flu Shots

It’s not too late to get a flu shot, and it’s recommended all individuals get one. If possible, provide flu vaccinations at your business so employees can receive the vaccination without leaving work. They’re often available free through employee health plans, and employees can also find them at drugstores like CVS or Walgreens.

Encourage Sick Employees to Stay Home

You may be left shorthanded when employees get sick, but pressuring them to return before they’re well can make the problem worse. Make sure everyone can recognize the symptoms of this year’s flu and knows they should stay home if they develop signs.

Prevent the spread of flu germs by encouraging staff to limit physical contact. This time of year, it’s best not to shake hands or exchange hugs whenever possible.

Disinfect Surfaces

One of the most important things you can do to prevent the spread of cold and flu germs is to regularly disinfect. Flu viruses can live on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours, so germs from the employee who went home at lunchtime are still infectious the next morning. Hire a dependable cleaning company to regularly disinfect your facility. Image One USA will routinely wipe desktops, light switches, doorways and countertops to kill the flu and protect the people who keep your business running all season long.