Flu & Respiratory Illness Prevention

As we move through peak flu and respiratory illness season, a few simple habits can make a big difference in keeping our workplace healthy. January is also National Radon Action Month—learn more at the EPA’s information page: https://www.epa.gov/radon/national-radon-action-month-information

🧼 Wash Your Hands Often

• Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol when soap and water aren’t available.

• Clean your hands after coughing, sneezing, eating, using shared equipment, or removing gloves.

• Avoid touching your face, especially after contact with shared surfaces.

  
  

🤧 Cover Coughs and Sneezes

• Use a tissue or your elbow—never your hands.

• Throw used tissues away immediately.

• Wash or sanitize your hands afterward.

  
  

🏠 Stay Home When You’re Sick

If you experience fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or congestion:

• Stay home to avoid spreading illness.

• Return only after being feverfree for 24 hours without medication (or as company policy directs).

• Resting early helps you recover faster and protects your coworkers.

  
  

🧽 Clean and Disinfect Shared Surfaces

Pay special attention to hightouch areas such as:

• Door handles

• Keyboards and touchscreens

• Breakroom tables

• Tools and shared equipment

  
  

🚫 Avoid Sharing Personal Items

During flu season, avoid sharing:

• Cups and utensils

• Phones

• PPE not intended for multiple users

  
  

👀 Watch for Early Symptoms

Recognizing symptoms early helps reduce spread. Take action quickly—rest, hydrate, and stay home if symptoms worsen.Common early signs include:

• Scratchy throat

• Fatigue

• Mild fever

• Cough or congestion

  
  

❤️ Protect Vulnerable People at Home

• Change clothes after potential exposure.

• Disinfect frequently touched household items.

• Isolate sick family members when possible.