Flu and the workplace

• The workplace is an ideal breeding ground for flu infections. People are working in close proximity to each other for long periods.
• Certain places at work are often cramped, such as lifts and offices. The air is often stuffy due to closed windows in winter.
• Vaccination of the work force can cut the rate of flu infection by half.
• Be very aware that some commonly used cold and flu medicines can cause drowsiness. Always check the package insert. A worker using these sorts of medication should not handle expensive or dangerous equipment.

Reviewed (2006) by Dr Jane Yeats MBChB, BSc(Med)(Hons)Biochem, FCPathSA(Virology).