Cold and Flu Season Preparedness
Is your business prepared for this year’s cold and flu season?
It’s important to be stocked on cold and flu prevention and rehabilitation supplies for your employees and guests. These simple, yet effective products make guests feel welcomed and safe. Not having the proper products available can not only cause cold and flu viruses to spread within your workplace, but the illness of your employees can also impact direct costs and lost productivity. Some of the most important items to stock up on this cold and flu season are the following:
- Facial tissues
- Cold and cough medicine
- Cough drops
- Air purifiers
- Disinfectant spray
- Disinfecting wipes
- Face masks
- Antimicrobial products
- Hand sanitizer
What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
According to the CDC, influenza (flu) and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by influenza viruses only, whereas the common cold can be caused by a number of different viruses including rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses. Seasonal coronaviruses should not be confused with SARS-COV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Because flu and the common cold have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are typically more intense and begin more abruptly.
Communicate and take action against cold and flu in your facility
In addition to stocking your office with the right cold and flu supplies, there are additional steps you can take to ensure a healthier, more productive workplace this season.
- Post informational signs around your office space
Take advantage of CDC approved and provided signage to hang up around your facility. Click here to view PDF copies that can be printed directly from your computer, or go online to the CDC website and request printed copies sent directly to your office at no charge. - Promote flu vaccinations into your wellness program
Encourage flu vaccination by offering onsite flu vaccination or resources on community flu vaccine locations. Click here for a checklist on how to promote seasonal flu vaccinations. - Encourage work-from-home when symptoms arise
One of the most important pieces to reducing the spread of cold and flu is isolating the issue. Be flexible and address the need to take a day off or work-from-home when symptoms such as as a fever become apparent.
