If you haven't flu season is here and it's packing a punch. Virtually every state has reported outbreaks of influenza and the season has plenty of time left. The northwest and northeast indicate that outbreaks are worse than last year.
It isn't just the flu that is making millions of Americans feel miserable. Other viruses and bacterial infections like the norovirus and strep are also being passed around. The CDC has indicated that Influenza A (H3N2) is the dominant reported strain that has been making people feel sicker during this 2016-17 flu season.
This poses a real problem for the workplace. Sick people should stay home while contagious. But even after they return to work, their productivity levels are low because they are still recovering and need to treat their symptoms. Employers can keep their workers productive by making available basic over the counter medicines designed for the workplace. They are individually packaged with instructions and warnings so employees can know what they are taking.
Take a look at our medicines here.
What can Human Resources do this cold & flu season?HR should educate and promote the flu vaccine. Supply for the vaccine is still good. While it doesn't guarantee you won't get the flu, it sure will reduce your chances. Human Resources should also promote proper hand washing, sneezing and coughing etiquette.
Housekeeping should make extra rounds and
sanitize hard surfaces, door handles and other places where hands touch potentially infected areas. Keep recovering employees comfortable and productive by making available
workplace medications where appropriate.
The Center for Disease Control has helpful information about the spread and prevention of the flu and other common illnesses.
Take a look at the CDC Flu page here.
