Protect Your Business, Protect Your Employees – Preparing for Flu and Covid Season

As the saying goes,  “a healthy workforce is a productive workforce.” And in today’s world, where the threat of flu and Covid is always looming, safeguarding employee health has become more crucial than ever before.

COVID-19 is now considered endemic, which means it will always be present, and employers must prioritize the health and safety of their employees to maintain business operations smoothly. This means taking necessary precautions and implementing preventive measures to combat the spread of flu and Covid in the workplace.

No “Covid Season”,  but Expect Increased Spikes During Flu Season

During the fall and winter months, we typically see a spike in influenza activity. However, with the ongoing threat of Covid, it’s important to note that there isn’t a specific “Covid season” like there is for the flu. 

That said, similar to influenza, it’s likely that we will see spikes in Covid cases in winter as people spend more time indoors.This means businesses must take extra precautions to protect their employees and maintain operations during this time.

Prevention Strategies for Flu and Covid 

Implementing prevention strategies in the workplace is crucial in minimizing the effects of both flu and Covid. Here are some key measures you can take to keep your employees healthy during flu season:

1. Encourage Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent the spread of flu and Covid is through vaccination. It can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick or experiencing severe symptoms if infected. Encourage your employees to get the flu and Covid vaccines and consider offering on-site vaccination clinics for convenience.

2. Promote Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. Provide hand sanitizers, tissues, and disinfectant wipes in common areas, and encourage employees to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing and wear a mask if they are showing any signs of respiratory illness.
3. Implement Flexible Sick Leave Policies: It is essential to have flexible sick leave policies that allow employees to stay home when feeling unwell. This will prevent the spread of illness in the workplace and protect those with compromised immune systems.
4. Enhance Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols: Regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and shared equipment, can help prevent the spread of both flu and Covid. Consider hiring professional cleaning services to ensure thorough sanitation.
5. Educate Employees: Providing information about flu and Covid prevention measures can help employees understand their role in keeping themselves and others safe. Share resources from reputable sources like the CDC to dispel myths and promote accurate information.

The Financial Costs Can Potentially Be Staggering

In addition to the physical and emotional toll that flu and Covid can take on individuals, businesses must also be aware of the potential financial costs associated with outbreaks in the workplace. These can include:

• Increased healthcare expenses for employers due to employee medical bills
• Decreased productivity from absenteeism and presenteeism (when sick employees come to work)
• Potential financial losses from hiring temporary workers or paying overtime to cover for absent employees
• Lost revenue and potential damage to reputation if operations are disrupted due to high rates of illness.

Final Thoughts 

Flu and Covid outbreaks in the workplace not only have a direct impact on the health of your employees, but they can also have significant financial consequences for businesses. As such, it’s crucial for employers to take proactive measures to prevent or minimize these outbreaks. By implementing the strategies outlined above, businesses can help keep their employees healthy and maintain productivity during flu season and beyond.