How to Stay Safe During Flu Season

The influenza virus is highly contagious, and during flu season, avoiding the illness can be challenging.

Seasonal influenza, also known as “the flu,” is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu season in the U.S. typically ranges from November to April. While it is a myth that cold temperatures cause colds, it is true that cold weather keeps people indoors, making exposure more likely. The flu can spread when workers share the same space, supplies, and equipment for long periods of time. Implementing preventative measures, recognizing symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment can assist employers reducing the spread of the flu.  

1. Prevention: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) recommends routine annual influenza vaccinations for all persons aged ≥ 6 months. Research shows that the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of contracting the flu by 40%-60%. Also, like vaccines, proper hygiene habits can also help defend against the flu.

• Avoid large crowds and close contact. If you are unwell, stay home and avoid contact as much as possible.
• Cover the mouth and nose. Use a tissue when sneezing and coughing and dispose of the tissue immediately after use.
• Keep clean hands. Regularly wash the hands with soap and water. When this is not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces. This applies to surfaces people regularly touch in the workplace such as handles, tools, and telephones. 

2. Symptoms & Diagnosis: Common symptoms of the flu to look out for include:

• fever
• body aches
• runny nose
• coughing
• sore throat
• fatigue

These symptoms typically improve in about a week, with some people fully recovering without any complications.

3. Treatment: The flu is treated primarily with rest and staying well-hydrated. If you have a fever, avoiding public- and workplaces may help prevent further spread of the flue. When in doubt, call your physician. Should you consider over over-the-counter medication, read the label as some medication can make you drowsy leading to increased safety hazards on the job.  

No method can guarantee complete safety from the flu. As an employer, you play a key role in flu readiness, it is important to develop a workplace wellness program to promote employee health. The flu is one of the costliest yet most preventable illnesses for businesses.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Cotney Construction Law is an advocate for the roofing industry and General Counsel of NRCA. Its attorneys’ practice in all areas of construction law. The firm works extensively on matters relating to OSHA defense, which includes the management and development of safety and health strategies for construction contractors across the United States. The firm’s OSHA practice concentrates on litigation and the appeals of citations involving catastrophic construction-related accidents. For more information, please visit www.cotneycl.com.