Flu season is in full swing. And it can take its toll on your company, leading to a depleted workforce and decreased productivity. But you can take steps to help your workers avoid the flu, or keep it contained if it strikes this winter. Here’s what you can do.
Preventing the Flu
Since it’s spread through person-to-person contact, or from coughs or sneezes, washing your hands after touching common surfaces (such as doorknobs) is one of the best lines of defense. It’s important to use hot, soapy water and wash for at least two minutes.
Getting a flu shot is also very important. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend this as the single most effective way to prevent getting the flu. To encourage your employees to get their flu shots, you may wish to offer a free flu shot clinic at your workplace. This makes it easy and convenient for workers to get vaccinated for the season.
Another helpful measure is to provide a tissues and hand sanitizer your workers can use when and if they need them. By using a tissue when they cough or sneeze, they can prevent the spread of germs through airborne droplets.
Recognize Symptoms of the Flu
Is it a cold, or is it the flu? Answers to this common question are frequently Googled in the winter months. It can help to provide information in print or email to your employees, so they’ll understand when to take some cold medicine—versus when to stay home and rest. Flu symptoms include:
- Cough
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle aches
- Tiredness
In general, symptoms above the neck indicate just a cold, while symptoms below the neck could mean something more.
What to Do When it’s the Flu
Though it may seem noble to continue to work despite having the flu, this course of action will only prolong illness. It will also increase the chances of spreading flu to coworkers. You should encourage employees with flu-like symptoms to take time off and rest. It’s best for them, and the health of those around them.
About Snelling Georgia Group
Snelling Georgia Group, Inc. is dedicated to consistently surpassing service performance standards, exceeding expectations and demonstrating a spirit of trust and respect to our customers, our staff and to the community we serve. Looking to hire the best employees in Tucker, Georgia? Contact our skilled team of recruiters and request an employee today!
