As an organization, it is important to prevent the spread of germs, not only during an outbreak, but at all times. Symptom-free employees should be encouraged to continue regular daily activities, even if they have recently visited Mexico. However, once someone is exhibiting symptoms, they should stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
Symptoms include:
- fever
- cough
- sore throat
- headache
- weakness/fatigue
- sore muscles
- joint pains
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Links:
Seasonal Flu Information for Workplaces & Employees - Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
Prevention
Employers should promote prevention among staff and in the workplace.
- Frequently clean common surfaces, such as keyboards, doorknobs, countertops, etc.
- Keep an alcohol-based sanitizer (gel or wipes) handy at work, home and in the car (hand sanitizers should contain 60-90% alcohol).
Emphasize the need for employees to:
- Wash hands well and often with soap and warm water – use an alcohol-based rub (minimum 60% alcohol-based) when there is not easy access to soap and water.
- In the absence of a tissue, sneeze and cough into their upper sleeve.
- Stay at home when sick.
These messages can be reinforced through:
- Meetings
- Emails
- Posters
- Occupational Health and Safety Communications
Workplace Pandemic Planning
It is important to review or develop a pandemic plan.
Learn About Pandemic Planning – Workplace Safety and Insurance Board
Ontario Health Plan for an Influenza Pandemic 2008 – Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
H1N1 Flu Reinforces need for workplace pandemic planning - Workers Health and Safety Centre
Business Continuity Planning - Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Health Promotion Posters (downloads)
Know what to do to fight the flu - PHAC
Hand washing: How to properly was your hands.
Protect your self and others from influenza
Last Revised/Reviewed
Wednesday, 2009-05-06 4:23 PM