Don’t Let Up on Flu Precautions

Although coronavirus has been all over the news lately, you are more likely to catch the flu this winter. Most people recover fully from influenza, however people with weakened immune systems and children can suffer complications, even death.

The latest influenza surveillance report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found flu activity remained high throughout the country the week ending January 18, after falling during the first two weeks of 2020. The CDC estimates so far this season there have been at least 15 million flu illnesses, 140,000 hospitalizations, and 8,200 deaths. Fifteen additional pediatric deaths were reported in the latest surveillance report, bringing the total to 54.

Flu germs spread easily when people are in close contact at school and work. Cintas Corp. offers tips for keeping the workplace healthy and maintaining facility cleanliness during the flu season.

• Implement a hand hygiene program, encouraging frequent handwashing among employees. Post signage in high-traffic locations such as breakrooms to remind employees to wash their hands throughout the day in addition to providing easy access to water, soap, and alcohol-based sanitizers.
   
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as door handles to offices, restrooms, and storage areas. Additional germ hot spots include desks, elevator buttons, and light switches.
   
• Keep supplies of hand hygiene products, toilet tissue, trash bags, disinfectants, and microfiber cleaning cloths well-stocked to encourage compliance with infection prevention strategies.
  
  
• Remind sick employees to stay home. Employees who come into work displaying symptoms of the flu can be highly contagious anywhere from 3-7 days.
  
  
• Encourage flu shots. Getting a flu vaccination can reduce the risk of illness by 40-60 percent, help reduce the severity of those who still fall ill, and help protect those who are vulnerable to disease.

Learn about three technologies that eliminate germs from high-touch surfaces.