OSHA and CDC Offers Tips to Protect Against the Flu

Statistics show that up to 20% of Americans will catch the flu virus each year in the United States. Of those who catch the flu, some 200,000 will require hospitalization. Because of it's more severe than a typical cold, employers and workers alike should take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from this all-too-common illness.

In an effort to protect workers from the flu virus, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has updated its "Workplace Safety and the Flu" web page with helpful new tips. The newly updated page contains insight from health professionals at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as other health organizations. So, what steps can you take to protect against the flu virus this season?

Get Vaccinated

One of the most effective ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated. Every year, medical professionals create two vaccines for the flu virus, both of which are available in injectable and nasal spray form. By getting vaccinated, you'll have a lower risk of catching the flu virus for which the vaccine was developed.

Stay Home When Sick

If you feel the onset of flu symptoms, stay home and don't go to work. Even if you have the energy to work, doing so will only increase the risk of transmission to other workers. Therefore, OSHA and the CDC recommends staying at home if you are sick with the flu virus.

Wash Hands

Of course, you can also reduce your risk of catching the flu virus by washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Transmission of the flu virus typically occurs when someone touches a surface like a doorknob and then touches their face. By washing your hands frequently, you'll reduce your risk of catching the flu virus.

Avoid Direct Contact with Sick Workers

I know this probably sounds like common sense, but it's still worth mentioning that you should avoid direct contact with workers who are sick with the flu. Shaking hands with a sick worker, for instance, will spread his or her germs to you; thus, increasing your risk of catching the flu.

Eat Right

Finally, eating the right foods can reduce your risk of catching the flu virus as well as other infectious illnesses. This means focusing your diet on lean meats with lots of fresh vegetables and fruits while limiting your consumption of processed foods.

For more tips on how to protect against the flu, check out OSHA's web page here.