While COVID-19 and its vaccinations have dominated the news, another virus making the rounds also threatens workers’ health, safety, and productivity.
Influenza can appear year-round, but the peak season usually runs from December to February.
“Last year, we had a record low flu season. Due to the pandemic, we were staying physically distant, wearing masks, and staying home when we could,” says Liz Hill, Total Worker Health adviser for SAIF. “The Oregon Health Authority is warning things may be different this year, especially since in-person school is back in session for most school-age children. Now is the time to get your flu vaccine.”
COVID and flu have a lot in common. They’re both spread by coughing, sneezing, talking, and close physical proximity. Symptoms are also similar, including respiratory problems, fevers, and headaches. (See this chart from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America that shows the symptoms of COVID, flu, a cold, allergies, and asthma.)
Fortunately, the same simple preventive measures that reduce the risk of contracting COVID can also decrease the risk of getting the flu:
- Get your flu vaccine
- Wear a mask
- Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer
- Cover sneezes and coughs
- Stay home when you’re feeling sick
“If you can’t stay at home, limit the time and increase your distance with others, and wear a mask,” says Hill. “We know these actions can reduce the spread of COVID — and the same is true of the flu.”
Free posters of SAIF's Flu Fighters and their safety advice are available in both English and Spanish at saif.com. For more information on preventing the spread of infectious disease, visit SAIF’s infectious disease resources.
|
|