The recent outbreak of viral infections around the world shows how quickly exotic diseases can spread in modern times. As traveling worldwide only becomes faster, the chances of similar occurrences only increases. Symptoms to look out for that are flu-related include high fever, cough, headache, muscle pain, runny nose, and a sore throat. If you suspect you have the flu, see your doctor right away.
Below are tips and considerations for situations where you or people you know develop symptoms or sickness from a flu-like illness.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay at home when you are sick. The rest will help you recover, and seclusion prevents spreading the illness to others.
- You can carry an infectious virus for five to seven days after symptoms appear. Young children and people with weakened immune systems might be contagious for more extended periods.
- Make sure to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Sneezing and coughing both release fine particles of mucus and saliva into the air. Other people can inhale these particles. If a healthy person comes in contact with the germs and then touches their mouth or nose, they can catch the illness.
- To help maintain your body’s ability to fight against infections, make sure to get plenty of sleep, stay physically fit, reduce your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. This practice can help prevent the entry of germs and viruses into your body and can help prevent you from spreading germs and infections if you are infected.
- Wash your hands often to remove any traces of the virus.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, especially when someone is ill. Studies have shown that the flu virus can live for two to eight hours after being left on a surface.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Viral Infections in the Office
Taking precautionary measures is a significant step towards avoiding sickness. Below are tips and considerations for preventing illness from viruses.
- Provide hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer.
- Provide waste receptacles and ask that tissues be discarded immediately after usage.
- Keep work stations and office spaces routinely clean.
- Take the time to educate employees on the benefits of a healthy and clean work environment.
- Promote a healthy living culture to boost the immune system.
- Collaborate with your local health department and other organizations for the latest information.
For more information
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/flu/resource-center/freeresources
The US Government’s Flu Resource: www.flu.gov
As always, if you “See Something, Say Something”. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).