Feel like your office is stuck in a never-ending cycle of sickness? Somewhat unavoidable this time of year, your co-workers’ endless coughing and sniffling can become a dreaded playlist. If you’ve had a flu shot, you may be well-armed to fight the virus head on. If not, here’s some advice and a few guidelines to keep you healthy until spring.
Stay Home
The best, but least-followed advice we have to offer is to take a sick day. It’s that simple. Get back into bed, rest and keep your germs to yourself. Let’s be honest, you’d want a fellow co-worker to do the same if they get the flu or a cold, right? There’s no shame in taking a sick day when you’re sick, and if possible, work from home until the contagious period passes.
Stay Vigilant
Most people catch colds when they touch their mouth, nose or eyes after their hands have been contaminated. Be courteous, always cough or sneeze into your inner arm or a tissue. It really does make a difference and your colleagues will appreciate the effort.
Stay Sanitized
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers kill most viruses in a few seconds (although we advise you rub your hands for a minimum of 15 seconds to be most effective). In fact, studies have shown that hand sanitizers reduce gastrointestinal illnesses too. A little bit goes a long way; use just a few drops before and after using shared office supplies and appliances.
Stay Soapy
Of course, the most important thing you can do to reduce the spread of office illness is to wash your hands regularly. The experts all agree. So, do it and do it often! Health officials recommend washing hands for at least 20 seconds to ensure they are clean. Frequent washing may cause dryness, so keep a tube of hand cream in your desk, and another in your purse or backpack.
Stay Clear
If sneezed or coughed out, the flu virus can spread up to 6 feet! So, avoid sharing phones, pens, or snacks as the virus can survive on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours.
Stay Tidy
Dirt and clutter create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Cold coffee, leftover lunch and unfinished snacks should be thrown out immediately to avoid any contamination.
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