IT’S THAT TIME of year again and we’re not talking about decking the halls just yet. It’s cold and flu season which remains one of the most commonly treated illnesses during the winter months, one in three people are expected to catch a flu in the weeks ahead and 80% of those will go on to seek treatment for it. Chances are, it’s something you’ll face in the coming months and with more of us back in the office than ever before, it’s the perfect time to consider how to prepare and combat cold and flu season if we’re frequenting an office space.
According to research* Irish adults consider fevers, headaches and coughs to be the most disruptive symptoms of cold and flus and only two in five Irish adults say that they are likely to look for time off work for this. Despite this, the vast majority of Irish adults say they are conscious of spreading their symptoms, with woman more likely to say they’re conscious of spreading symptoms than men. So, if you want to avoid feeling smothered with a cold or floored by a winter flu this season, here’s a few simple solutions to staying healthy in the workplace:
This is arguably the most important point and something that everyone should be mindful of during cold and flu season. If you’re experiencing any symptoms such as a runny nose, headache, sore throat, muscle ache and a cough, you should stay home from work. You’ll be able to recuperate and rest which is vital to your recovery, and you’re stopping the spread of the virus to your colleagues. It’s a simple step – but one that will be appreciated in the long run by your colleagues.
Regular hand washing is a no-brainer. It’s a hygienic practice we’ve all been taught since a very young age and it’s just good sense. When you’re in the office, ensure you practice a frequent hand-washing routine. Washing your hands regularly, and before you touch your face in particular, reduces the risk of cold and flu virus transmission. This hygiene process should extend to all elements of office life; if you’re sneezing or coughing you should use a clean tissue and bin it immediately before washing your hands thoroughly straight after.
Irrespective of the season, it’s a good rule of thumb to keep your workstation clean and sanitised in order to protect your own health as well as your colleagues. Desks, computers, break areas, door handles and phones can all be hotbeds for germs and the spread of illness so, it’s crucial that we all do our part to keep our areas clean. Take care of your own surfaces and surrounding regularly by wiping everything down with a disinfectant wipe, and keeping your own hand sanitiser at your desk is also advised.
In order to keep your body healthy and to fight off viruses, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout the year. By taking proactive steps yourself, if you get struck down by a cold or a flu, hopefully your body will be in a good position to fight it off. Regular movement, prioritising sleep and rest and adopting a balanced diet of nutritionally dense food, will all contribute to your overall health. Vitamin C can also help support your immune system and can set you up to be in great shape to stave off cold and flu season.
The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to keep you healthy throughout the winter months. It’s available from October through to April, and not only protects you but also protects vulnerable people around you, such as over 65′s and children. You can find all the information and additional facts you need on getting the flu vaccine from the HSE here.
Coming down with a cold or flu? Always ask your pharmacist for advice. Solpa Cold & Flu Multi-Relief Max Powder for Oral Solution to relieve all the symptoms of colds and flu and the pain and congestion of sinusitis, including aches and pains, headache, blocked nose and sore throat, chills and feverishness (high temperature). The only max strength, triple active formulation available, suitable for adults, the elderly and children aged 16 years and over. Always read the leaflet.
For more information about cold and flu, visit Boots
*Consumer research on cold & flu was conducted by Coyne Research for Perrigo in April 2023
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say