As the 2024 cold and flu season unfolds, businesses across the United States are facing a unique set of challenges. At Foreman Pro Cleaning, we understand the complexities that business owners and entrepreneurs operating in typical office settings are currently navigating. In this article, we’ll provide you with an update on the status of this year’s cold and flu season, shed light on the effects it is having on businesses, and discuss how office-related illnesses are making a comeback.
The 2024 Cold and Flu Season Update
The cold and flu season of 2024 has been marked by significant activity across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of the first week of January, an estimated 14 million people have fallen ill due to the flu, with 150,000 flu-related hospitalizations and 9,400 tragic deaths. Alarmingly, among these statistics are as many as 40 children and teenagers, including five infants under the age of 5 months.
Our operating area of Maryland, DC, and Virginia has seen high to very high activity of flu.
While the elderly have traditionally been more susceptible to severe flu cases, healthcare professionals are now witnessing severe cases among all age groups, including young adults in their 20s to 40s. Symptoms such as dehydration, wheezing, severe headaches, and high fevers above 104 degrees have been driving individuals to seek hospitalization.
The Cold and Flu Season Impact on Business
This surge in flu-related illnesses is not limited to personal health concerns. Businesses are experiencing the ripple effects as employees fall sick. Shortages due to staff illnesses, reduced productivity, and a general downturn in morale are just some of the challenges businesses face.
With people gradually returning to workplaces amid the relaxation of COVID-19 protocols, combined with the pressures to meet productivity goals, the office bug, which we all remember well, is making an unwelcome comeback. It wasn’t long ago that colleagues would take extra precautions in the office, practicing masking, social distancing, and hand hygiene.
However, in recent weeks, there’s been a noticeable shift in attitudes. The sneezes and sniffles now seem to circulate around the cubicles more freely, and people are less inclined to stay home when feeling under the weather.
This resurgence of the common cold is coinciding with organizations increasing their expectations for employees to return to the office.
Some companies now mandate that employees be in the office for at least three days a week, regardless of their health status. This dynamic creates an environment where illnesses can easily spread, potentially affecting both employees’ well-being and business operations.
How Can Businesses Reduce the Effects of Cold and Flu Season
At Foreman Pro Cleaning, we understand the delicate balance between business operations and employee well-being. Our experience in managing the effects of cold and flu seasons, combined with our commitment to a healthy workplace, positions us to offer some valuable insights.
- Prioritize Health and Well-being
First and foremost, businesses should prioritize the health and well-being of their employees. Encourage sick employees to stay home, even if they can work remotely. Working while sick not only prolongs recovery but can also negatively impact productivity and team morale.
- Offer Paid Sick Leave
Providing paid sick leave is a crucial step in ensuring that employees can take time off when needed without financial strain. It’s essential to support workers in taking care of their health and reducing the risk of spreading illnesses.
- Encourage Vaccination
While the flu vaccine may not completely prevent the flu, it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Encourage employees to get vaccinated and consider offering flu shot clinics in the workplace.
- Maintain Health Protocols
Continue to implement health protocols such as hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and proper ventilation in the workplace. These measures can help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
- Foster a Culture of Well-being
Create a workplace culture that promotes well-being and values employees’ health. Managers should encourage their teams to take sick days when needed, and senior leadership should set the example by taking time off when unwell.
Fight against Cold and Flu with an Experienced Commercial Cleaner
As the 2024 cold and flu season unfolds, businesses have an opportunity to prioritize the health of their employees while maintaining productivity and operations. At Foreman Pro Cleaning, we stand ready to assist you in creating a healthier workplace environment. By navigating these challenges together, we can ensure a safer and more prosperous year ahead.
We offer comprehensive cleaning plans. Including sanitizing and disinfection for all types of commercial facilities. From the standard office space to medical and healthcare facilities. Contact us to learn more about how you can guard your employees’ health and your company’s reputation.