As dizzying as it is to read the daily updates, it’s important for employers to keep common-sense policies in practice during these uncertain times.
That doesn’t mean employers need to panic, but it is a chance to educate.
Coronavirus — also known as COVID-19 — is a new disease that causes symptoms similar to the common cold. The reason it’s spreading so quickly is that even if a host is carrying it, they may not present symptoms for several days. The virus can also live on surfaces for up to nine days, making it easily transmittable to others.
Want the facts about the virus?
Below, you’ll find your coronavirus cheat sheet for dealing with this health issue in the workplace.
Unfortunately, in the last few weeks, the outbreak of the coronavirus is causing political, economic, and social upset in a variety of ways.
To date, 100 countries have reported an outbreak or COVID-19, including the United States. The virus is “SARS-CoV-2” but the disease it causes is called “coronavirus disease 2019” or COVID-19.
Schools and workplaces have shut down, entire countries have quarantined residents, and everyday commodities like hand soap are selling out everywhere.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a pandemic, but it’s not a reason for workers to panic. Below, we share the science-backed facts of how to tackle this topic at work.
Individuals who are feeling unwell in the upcoming months should carefully monitor their symptoms. A test became available mid-January for the coronavirus, so those who believe they have it may be properly diagnosed. You may feel body aches and have a fever at the onset of the virus.
The following symptoms often appear two to 14 days after exposure:
Emergency warning signs of COVID-19 require immediate medical attention. These may include:
For any other symptoms, call your nurse line or visit your primary doctor. This will free up space in emergency departments for those who are dealing with serious illness.
Important note: Most people recover from COVID-19. About 80% of those who contract it will have mild symptoms, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report.
The most important aspect of COVID-19 to understand is that it’s easily transmitted.
While a typical “cold-like” illness may not be a problem for healthy individuals, it can cause serious illness or death for others.
The common thread among those who have died from the virus is they had underlying health issues that were further complicated by the virus. This means if an otherwise healthy employee has the sniffles and a slight fever, they could still potentially spread this virus. It could be picked up by another employee who could be seriously compromised. They may be taking care of an unwell elderly parent or have health issues themselves.
People with severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes are more susceptible to catching this virus. Same goes for elderly individuals.
That’s why it’s a must during this time to send sick employees home.
As of March 16, 2020, there were 69 deaths of the 3,813 confirmed cases in the United States.
For perspective, between October 2019 through March 2020, between 20,000 to 52,000 individuals died from influenza. While there is a flu shot available, no known vaccine is available for coronavirus at this time.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone with symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to stay home. No matter what illness your workers are facing, it’s best to have them work from home, if possible.
These individuals shouldn’t come into work until they are:
Once an individual has 24 hours symptom-free, they can return to work.
There are some common-sense practices employers and employees can take to avoid the spread of any virus at work. Additionally, flu season still isn’t over, so your workplace may be battling with multiple strains of illness.
Here’s a look at how to protect your employees while still keeping your business afloat:
Check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention interim guidance for dealing with coronavirus in the workplace.
Again, handling the coronavirus situation in the workplace comes down to mostly using common sense.
There are always those employees who want to power through and seem stoic when they’re sick by coming in. Remind these employees of your current sick policies and coach them on leave use.
A few strategies everyone in your workplace can use now:
How is your workplace handling the coronavirus outbreak and concern? Let us know in the comments below!