Flu season early this year: time to prepare

With the onset of the flu season, employers should now be planning their offensive to keep workplaces safe and productive.

Flu viruses spread in respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze and droplets containing the virus can settle onto surfaces, such as door knobs, and then spread when the surfaces are touched.

Workers should be reminded that protecting themselves also helps to safeguard others more vulnerable. Having the flu vaccine each year is the best form of protection, and employers are urged to encourage healthy workers to get the flu shot and to advise sick workers to stay home and not spread the flu.

Employers should consider funding a flu vaccination program for staff and ensuring good hygiene standards around the workplace because, while the flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the flu, personal hygiene also helps prevent the spread of infection.

The associated cost may be offset by reduced sick-leave and absenteeism.

Further information

For flu prevention resources visit www.health.qld.gov.au