The year 2018 is still young, but it’s safe to say this is already the year of one of the nation’s worst influenza outbreaks in recent history. At press time, the flu was widespread in every U.S. state except Hawaii. Devastating and sometimes deadly, the flu is spread by person-to-person contact; germs from a cough or sneeze can travel about 6 feet away and can live on door handles, telephones, and other objects.
Flu season peaks around February. If you work in an office, a confined space with multiple people, it’s important to take the following steps to keep your workplace healthy for yourself and your coworkers.
- Do not come to work if you are sick (if you are the boss, make sure your employees know that’s the policy!)
- Skip the handshakes.
- Wash your hands frequently and keep hand sanitizer handy.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or by coughing or sneezing into your sleeve.
Other Healthy Office Tips, Flu Season or Not!
Staying healthy in the workplace requires more than being diligent about germs. Too much sitting is also unhealthy! Make a point to take mini-breaks every hour or so. Walk to the water fountain and take a sip. Walk to your co-worker’s office to ask a question rather than emailing that question. Fit a brisk walk into your lunch hour. Take the stairs rather than the elevator and don’t jockey for the closes parking spot! Not only will these tips help your heart, they’ll also help you stay mentally focused so you can do your job better!