Virus Prevention Protocol in the Workplace

sick at work protocolIt’s February and we are still in the middle of Winter although the gloomy days of January are behind us. However with winter and unpredictable weather conditions comes flu season!

It is estimated that the highly contagious flu can infect anyone within 6 feet away from an infected person. The office is one place that most people are likely to be infected by the flu as it’s almost certain that you would come in close contact with a person or surface that is contaminated. Bearing this in mind we here are a few tips for virus prevention in the workplace.

1. Adopt a health-conscious protocol in the Office
There are many common areas in an office and it is a healthy move to adopt a procedure or protocol that makes employees aware of how easily these areas can be contaminated. Using a disinfectant in the office is a good idea not only during flu season but all through the year.

Areas and surfaces that are commonly touched and used should be disinfected and cleaned regularly. It has been found that implementing such a protocol can reduce the risk of contamination by 80%. Door handles, faucets, kitchen counters, telephones, computers, commonly used mugs or glassware should be washed and cleaned thoroughly.

2. Cover up coughs and sneezes
Prevent the spread of germs by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or by sneezing or coughing into your elbow. Sneezing or coughing can spray infectious droplets into the air. If there is no tissue handy, sneeze into your sleeve at the elbow or wear a mask that can be easily bought at a drug store. As a means of personal hygiene its very important to remember to wash your hands with soap and warm water whenever possible. Carry hand sanitizer with you at all times.

3. Take a sick day
It is proper protocol to stay away from the office if you’re suffering from the flu. The flu symptoms bear a close resemblance to the symptoms of a common cold, the only difference being the presence of a fever in the case of flu. Going in to work, while having the flu is potentially harmful to your co-workers as well to yourself. You may think you are being lazy or compromising productivity by staying home over a few cold like symptoms but coming in to work would spread the virus among your co-workers resulting in more absences and a significant drop in productivity.

4. Minimize social interaction when you’re sick
Keep to yourself at the office if you feel you have the flu. It would be beneficial to your co-workers if you limit your interaction with them if you suspect you are infected with the flu. If you deal with clients outside of the office you should avoid shaking hands and maintain a distance when talking to them. Remember to let people know you’re under the weather so they understand why you are not shaking hands and limiting social interaction.

5. Eat well, Drink well. Sleep well.
Eating well and getting sufficient sleep is important during the winter months, when most people are very susceptible to the flu. Eating healthy, having a well balanced diet, drinking lots of water to keep hydrated and getting at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night is a good recipe for keeping the flu away.

6. Get your flu shot
Most work places now offer the flu vaccine free of charge in an attempt to keep this contagious disease from spreading. If you feel the flu shot could be beneficial to you, it is another precautionary measure you can take advantage of. However it should be noted that as with any vaccine there could be side effects and you could wind up feeling a little under the weather post vaccine.

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