Even though you had your flu shot, inevitably someone in your office “forgot” to get vaccinated and came to work sick, spreading flu and cold viruses to everyone. Here are a few things you can do to help reduce the spread of colds and flu.
- Vaccination against the flu is the #1 way to help protect yourself and those around you. If you haven’t already been vaccinated, don’t wait any longer—get your flu shot now.
- Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times a day for 15-20 seconds with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The hand sanitizer does not have to be antibacterial.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth until you can wash your hands. Consider wiping down your work space with an alcohol-based disposable hand wipe.
- If you get sick, stay home. Period. End of story.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Cough or sneeze into a tissue. If a tissue isn’t readily available, use your upper sleeve versus your hand.
- See a doctor when you need to. If your cold or flu lingers longer than it should, or seems severe, call a doctor. Viruses can cause deadly complications so be smart, not just brave.
- Avoid stress. Eat right. Get some exercise.