As the weather continues to be uncomfortably cold, the flu is becoming more and more prevalent. Each year, on average, five to 20 percent of the United States population gets the flu. It is estimated that the flu results in 31.4 million outpatient visits and more than 200,000 hospitalizations each year.
The flu is easily spread by touch, the flu can spread like wildfire in a work environment. With people using the same meeting rooms, bathrooms, coffee maker, vending machines, and elevators it’s little wonder why if one person gets sick at work, chances are good lots of people will get sick.
What to do when the flu starts to spread:
1. Sick employees need to stay home. Period. Whether it’s the CEO or the janitor, it’s simply not worth spreading the germs around the office.
2. Disinfect phones and keyboards. Even if these items are not shared by others, it’s a good idea to spray or wipe down keyboards and phones. Door knobs are always great places for germs to hide and spread.
3. Clean the office duct work. The flu virus and cold germs stick around. Getting your ductwork cleaned can help and it will reduce the amount of dust that builds up on surfaces.
4. Air purifiers. There’s also something to be said for a good air purifier. Germs go everywhere. It can’t hurt to suck them out of the air before they land on your desk.
As always, you can count on Great River Office Products to carry everything you need for the office and that includes cleaning supplies. With our next day delivery in the metro area service, you won’t need to go into the cold to get these products.
Stay healthy and warm this winter!