Wellbeing Weekly

2 Minute Read

As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, flu season makes its annual return. While some cases are mild, the flu can lead to serious complications – especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. The good news? With a few simple, preventive health and wellness strategies, you can reduce your risk of getting sick and help protect those around you – at work and at home.

The flu also poses risks to organizations and their populations. Companies experience an annual increase in absenteeism during flu season. The flu and flu-like illness have a meaningful impact on people’s ability to work, which also impacts their employers and community.

According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, up to 75% of employees missed work when they had the flu or a flu-like illness. Their average time out of work was usually 2–3 days each time they were sick. Most employees who had the flu or flu-like illness also said that they continued to work while they were sick (60–80%). Most employed adults who were caregivers for someone else with the flu said that they missed work to care for someone else for an average of 1–2 days.

Overall, people who were vaccinated against the flu missed less time from work compared with their peers who were not vaccinated. Encouraging employees to get their annual flu shot can significantly reduce flu illness, doctor's visits, missed workdays, and hospitalizations. Employers can facilitate this by organizing on-site flu vaccination clinics or providing resources for off-site options.

3 Health Strategies for the Flu Season:

The flu vaccine is your first line of defense. It’s updated each year to target the most common strains. Getting vaccinated doesn’t just protect you – it helps reduce the spread in your community, including to those who are more vulnerable.

Tip: Schedule your flu shot early in the season, ideally by the end of October, but it’s never too late to benefit.

Germs spread easily through touch. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, coughing, or sneezing.

Tip: Can’t get to the sink? Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizer nearby – just make sure it contains at least 60% alcohol. Use an easy timer when washing your hands by singing the happy birthday song three times.

Preventive health isn’t just about avoiding germs – it’s about building up your body’s natural defenses.

Tips:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
• Stay active with regular physical movement, even if it’s a brisk walk.
• Get enough sleep – most adults need 7-9 hours each night.
• Manage stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or quiet time.

The flu season doesn’t have to derail your or your organization’s health. With a little planning and daily habits, you can stay ahead of seasonal illness and feel your best through this annual and inevitable time of year.

Don’t wait – start taking steps today to protect yourself and those around you. (Cue scrolling up to the number one strategy.)