An Expensive Bug: Flu Prep 101

Getting the flu is expensive and can compromise the health of the people in your facility. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu costs American businesses $7 billion a year in sick days and lost productivity. Each year, employees miss approximately 17 million workdays due to the flu.

In particular, 2018 saw one of the most severe flu seasons in recent years. To keep that from happening again and to help reduce the impact on business operations, employers need to create a work environment that utilizes the best planning and resources. You can make a big impact on your bottom line, as well as the lives of your staff, residents, and guests, without breaking the bank.

Plan

The common cold and flu viruses can spread quickly from person to person. Make sure to have a plan in place to address a flu outbreak. To help stop the spread of infectious diseases and control germs, have plenty of antibacterial soap, hand sanitizer, and tissues available for your staff, guests, and residents.

Flu Shots

Encourage your staff to get a flu shot. The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine, saying it is the most important step in protecting against influenza. A vaccine can reduce: the risk of getting the flu, visits to the doctor, sick time, and prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

Good Behaviors

In addition to a flu shot, personal hygiene is one of the best ways to help prevent the spread of germs. Make sure your staff are washing their hands frequently or using hand sanitizers if hand soap and water are not available. Also, keep your workplace stocked with tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based hand rubs, and disposable wipes.

Sanitation

To minimize the spread of a virus, keep high-traffic areas clean. That means routinely sanitizing frequently touched objects and surfaces, including door knobs, keyboards, and phones, to help remove germs.

More information about the flu and other infectious diseases is available
in the Emergency Preparedness Guide.