The success of a business can often come down to its employees, which means that taking care of them should be a top priority for employers. Offering wellness initiatives throughout your organization can be a great way to support employees and their well-being. As part of these wellness initiatives, many companies are currently educating employees on how to best stay protected during flu season. From flu vaccines to flexible work policies, there are numerous ways that employers can help prevent the flu from spreading in the workplace and better assist employees that may get sick. Here are a few recommendations, per information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Preventive Actions Employers can provide their team with up-to-date information on flu risk factors and preventive actions. For example, respiratory etiquette can be promoted by making tissues available throughout the workplace, so that employees can cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze.
You can also educate employees on the importance of hand hygiene, and provide easy access to running water and soap or alcohol-based hand rubs. Staying Home Employers should develop and review their sick leave policies that encourage sick workers to stay at home without fear of any reprisals. Flexible policies, such as allowing employees to work from home (if feasible), can also help those who may need to stay home to care for sick family members.
Employees that do become sick with the flu should be advised to stay home until at least 24 hours after their fever (temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 37.8 degrees Celsius or higher) is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicines. Flu Vaccines The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. Employers can share this information with employees, and encourage them to get a seasonal flu vaccine each fall. Your organization might even consider hosting a flu vaccine clinic at your workplace, if possible. Alternatively, you can provide resources to employees about where they can get a flu vaccine in their community. Interested in learning more? SynchronyHR offers wellness consulting and plan development, as well as access to extensive, corporate-style employee benefits that can help keep employees happy and healthy. Reach out today to learn more. *This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional.