Your productivity and operations are susceptible in the wintertime. That’s generally when influenza season occurs.
But the timing can fluctuate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Since the winter of 1982-1983, flu has been most problematic in February followed by December, January and March.
Flu as well as cold seasons can obviously have an adverse effect on your business operations. Your exposure is enormous – not only from your employees but from their families and your customers.
Plus, it’s worth remembering most employees have a tendency to show up even if they don’t feel well. They don’t want to use up their paid-time-off, lost pay and their thinking that they’re expected to be at work. That increases risks for you and your healthy employees.
So what can you do to fight the flu season?
1. Promote flu shots
Get a flu shot and encourage your staff to get one every year – the obvious first step. There are various strains of flu and they can be different every year.
That’s why flu shots are recommended by CDC for every person six months or older when vaccines are available.
Besides flu-shot immunity deteriorates over time.
So why not take advantage of opportunities that exist in many pharmacies where appointments aren’t required?
2. Encourage telecommuting
If you or your employees experience flu symptoms, consider telecommuting or staying at home. You’ll find that it will enhance your immune system and avert spreading flu germs at your company.
3. Wash your hands repeatedly all day long
Germs exist everywhere – telephones, desks, printers, keyboards, and door handles and more.
So encourage washing of hands in warm water and soap for 20 seconds. Also effective are alcohol-based sanitizers.
Don’t touch your eyes, mouth and nose.
4. Use other good health routines
Drink enough water and juices, get enough sleep, manage stress, eat nutritious food and stay active. It’s good insurance.
So, for that matter, practice these routines all year long.
5. Start an education campaign
Spread the message to minimize contagion of germs. Distribute informative articles and brochures. Provide cleaning products and sanitizers. Share the benefits of flu shots and encourage others to do it, too.
From the Coach’s Corner, here are editor’s picks for additional reading on health:
Manage Health Costs by Improving Your Culture 3 Ways — Is your company saddled with high health costs? By improving your culture in three ways to minimize stress, your company will improve performance and long-term sustainability.
Why Many Healthcare Workers Cause Medical ID Theft — Medical identity theft is skyrocketing. It’s the fast-growing trend in ID thievery.
“Good health is not something we can buy. However, it can be an extremely valuable savings account.”
-Anne Wilson Schaef
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