Businesses coughing up dearly for flu outbreaks

The common cold is costing the business community big dollars each year, as debate continues to rage around the costs of paid sick leave versus presenteeism. 

Presenteeism – coming to work while sick – is said to have cost the Australian economy $34.1 billion and 6.5 days worth of productivity per employee. And that study, conducted by health insurer Medibank, as conducted back in 2009-10, indicates the financial cost in 2018 is likely to be much higher. 

If you are sick DO NOT come to work. By attending work when you are unwell you are sharing your germs. 

Demonstrating this point, the Immunisation Coalition conducted an experiment using ultraviolet powder to recreate the spread of germs see video Flu in the Office 

2017 had the biggest flu season on record, in is likely 2018 will exceed this. In addition to sick workers operating at reduced capacity because of their illness, turning up at work while unwell can cause two main knock-on effects: spreading their germs to co-workers, and risking complications resulting in them becoming even more unwell.

Yet despite these risks, 90 per cent of workers admitting to attending work while suffering symptoms of the flu.

“The virus remains active for up to eight hours after touching something,” the spokesperson said.

Good health habits can prevent you getting sick 

1. Avoid close contact.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2. Stay home when you are sick.

If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick..

4. Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Good luck avoiding the flu, this flu season.