4 Workplace Tips for Preventing the Flu

You’ve likely come to expect more call-offs in the winter months thanks to seasonal sickness, but did you know the CDC approximates a loss of 111 million workdays each year due to flu-related illnesses? This equates to a shocking $7 billion loss per year due to sick days and lost productivity. Luckily, there are simple steps for preventing the flu in the office.

First of all, immunize, immunize, immunize.  

Encourage employees to get a flu shot, and direct them to our earlier blog post to help them determine which one is right for them. You can make this step even easier by hosting a flu shot clinic onsite. Employees can get their vaccination and be back to work in minutes– talk about increasing productivity!

Get your hands dirty… then clean them.

Make hand-washing convenient and effective by maintaining clean restrooms, full soap and paper towel dispensers, and sufficient time for employees to wash up during breaks. Even better, place hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the office, especially in areas like kitchens and break rooms.

Anticipate sickness to protect others.

Preventing the flu isn’t foolproof, so you’re bound to have a few extra call-offs during flu season. Employees with a fever of 100.4℉ or higher along with a cough, sore throat, or other symptoms like chills, body aches, or vomiting should stay home. Cultivate an environment where employees are free to use their sick time as they please, without fear of consequences. This keeps healthy employees flu-free and allows infected workers time to rest.

Clean appliances to bust germs.

Use safe cleaner and disinfectant to sanitize commonly used items like phones, keyboards, coffee makers, and desk surfaces. Any items that are shared by multiple people need extra attention during flu season.

These steps can making preventing the flu second nature, helping you reduce sick time costs during flu season and maintain a healthy work environment. For more information on flu shot clinics or other immunization information, contact us today!

Schedule your clinic today!