Anyone who works in an office knows the dread that comes with cold season. It often starts with one coworker coughing and sneezing, then another, and before long, more people are out sick than at their desks. To keep the flu and colds from turning into office-wide epidemics, you can take several preventative steps. If you don’t have a workplace wellness program yet, it might be a good idea to start one. And if you do, consider adding these tips to keep cold-related absences to a minimum this winter.
1. **Hand Washing is Crucial**
We always hear it, but it’s true: washing your hands is the best way to stop the spread of flu, colds, and other infections. Be sure your coworkers know how important proper handwashing is. You can even highlight National Handwashing Awareness Week in December to reinforce the message.
2. **Cover Your Nose and Mouth Properly**
Many of us learned to cover our mouths with our hands when we cough or sneeze. However, this method isn’t entirely effective because it transfers germs to our hands, which then touch surfaces others use. Instead, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow and encourage others to do the same to reduce the spread of germs.
3. **Keep Common Areas Clean**
In most offices, there are surfaces that everyone touches daily—like bathroom fixtures, coffee makers, photocopiers, fax machines, and doorknobs. During cold season, ensure these areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected to minimize germ transfer.
4. **Encourage General Health Practices**
Your employee wellness program should promote good health year-round, but it’s especially important during cold and flu season. Motivate your employees to eat healthily, manage stress, and get plenty of sleep. A healthy lifestyle boosts the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.
5. **Provide Flu Shots**
If possible, organize an in-office flu vaccination day. If that’s not feasible, provide information on where employees can get vaccinated locally and whether it’s covered by your insurance. Flu shots are effective, and the more people who get them, the less likely a flu outbreak will occur in the office.
Despite these efforts, remember that it’s nearly impossible to prevent colds entirely. Even the best workplace wellness programs can’t eliminate all sick days. However, educating employees on preventing the spread of illness can significantly reduce them, keeping everyone more productive and happier during the winter months.