Weekly Safety Share #69 - Flu Season
As the weather changes, the flu and cold season is upon us. The influenza virus affects nearly everyone at some point in their lives—most people will experience it multiple times. While many recover with rest and care, the flu can be especially dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems and adults over the age of 65.
Flu activity can vary in severity from year to year, but it consistently poses a workplace safety risk. The flu virus typically begins circulating in late October and can last through early May, with peak activity often occurring in December and February. Protecting yourself and your coworkers during this time is essential to maintaining both personal health and workplace productivity.
Why Flu Vaccinations Matter
The single most effective way to protect yourself against influenza is vaccination. Each year, researchers study which flu strains are likely to be the most active and tailor vaccines accordingly.
Once vaccinated, your body develops protective antibodies within about two weeks. These antibodies help defend you against the viruses included in the vaccine. By choosing to get vaccinated, you not only lower your own risk of infection but also help protect those around you, especially coworkers and loved ones who may be more vulnerable.
Tips to Prevent the Spread of the Flu
Here are practical steps everyone can take to stay healthy and keep the workplace safe:
-
Get vaccinated – The best line of defense against the flu.
-
Avoid close contact with sick individuals – And if you’re sick, keep your distance from others to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
-
Wear a mask in crowded spaces – Especially in enclosed buildings or events where distancing is difficult.
-
Stay home when ill – Protect your coworkers by resting at home. A single contagious employee could potentially infect an entire work crew, leading to significant downtime and financial strain for the company.
-
Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette – Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. Dispose of tissues promptly and wash your hands.
-
Wash your hands frequently – Soap and water is best; when unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
-
Avoid touching your face – Germs spread easily when transferred from surfaces to your eyes, nose, or mouth.
-
Disinfect high-touch surfaces – Keep common areas clean at work, home, and school, especially when someone is sick.
-
Maintain healthy habits – Adequate sleep, regular exercise, good stress management, hydration, and balanced nutrition all support a strong immune system.
Final Reminder
By taking precautions now, you can help reduce flu-related absences, protect vulnerable coworkers, and keep operations running smoothly. Staying healthy is not just about personal well-being—it’s about keeping our entire workplace safe, strong, and productive.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and let’s look out for one another this flu season.