Winter Bugs: Avoiding and Managing Illness at Work
Winter brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and unfortunately, a spike in the number of coughs, colds and flu cases. Many people spend more time indoors and in closer proximity to others thus making workplaces a common environment for germs to spread. Knowing how to protect yourself and those around you can help everyone stay healthier and keep your workplace running smoothly.
Why Winter Increases the Risk of Illness
During the winter months viruses that cause colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses circulate more easily. The colder, drier air helps viruses survive longer on surfaces and in the air. People also tend to keep windows and doors closed, which reduces ventilation and can make it easier for germs to build up and be passed around.
Often, people head to work even when they’re feeling a bit under the weather not realising how quickly illnesses can spread. This is especially true in open-plan offices, shared kitchens and meetings where people are in close contact.
How to Reduce the Spread of Winter Bugs at Work
One of the simplest ways to stop germs from spreading is through regular hand washing. Washing your hands after coughing, sneezing or touching shared surfaces like doorknobs and kitchen appliances removes viruses that you may have picked up. Hand sanitiser can be a useful backup when soap and water aren’t readily available, but thorough handwashing is most effective.
Good respiratory hygiene is equally important. Using a tissue or coughing into the crook of your elbow (rather than your hands) helps stop droplets from spreading to others and contaminating surfaces. Tissues should be disposed of straight away and hands should be washed as soon as possible.
Regular cleaning of shared surfaces in the office can help reduce the risk of passing on bugs. Door handles, lift buttons, shared computer equipment and kitchen surfaces can all harbour viruses through the winter season. Maintaining physical distance where possible, especially if someone is unwell, can also be effective in limiting the transmission of common winter bugs.
Maintaining Your Immunity
Supporting your immune system with healthy routines can give you an edge when it comes to fighting off winter illnesses. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function well. Sleeping enough, staying active and managing stress all support your body’s defences against infection.
Flu vaccinations are widely available in New Zealand and are recommended each year before winter hits. The flu vaccine doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick but it can significantly reduce your risk of severe illness and help protect vulnerable colleagues.
Managing Symptoms and Minimising the Spread
Despite everyone’s best efforts catching a winter bug is sometimes unavoidable. If you start to feel unwell at work it’s important to let your manager know and consider heading home, especially if you have symptoms like fever, muscle aches, coughing, sore throat or a runny nose. For milder symptoms taking breaks, drinking plenty of fluids and resting as much as possible at home will help you recover more quickly.
If you must work while unwell then try to minimise direct contact with others, continue robust hygiene practices and consider wearing a mask if practical and appropriate for your workplace. Open windows where possible to improve ventilation and wash your hands often. Let your team know so they can also take precautions.
When to Seek Further Help
Most winter bugs can be managed at home with rest, hydration and time. However, if you or someone you know experiences high or persistent fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain or becomes very unwell then it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. For those with chronic health conditions, even mild symptoms may require attention, so don’t hesitate to check with your GP.
A Healthier, Happier Workplace
Staying well during winter requires a group effort. Good personal habits, consideration for colleagues and a proactive approach to managing winter bugs can make a big difference to everyone’s health. By working together, and looking after each other, you can help keep your workplace as healthy and productive as possible throughout the colder months.