Employee health care in winter: how to proceed?

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Every year, the winter season is marked by an increase in cases of respiratory diseases among the population. After the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation became even more delicate. The transmission rate has increased significantly, and it is not just the novel coronavirus.

This impacts all sectors: family, school and, of course, work. How are companies acting in relation to the problem? Below, we provide some guidelines that can help entrepreneurs and reduce possible disruptions.



Guidance – Care


Most companies already have guidelines for their skype database aimed at reducing the transmission of respiratory diseases. However, it is worth remembering some etiquette rules that are here to stay:



– Wash your hands thoroughly;

– Use alcohol gel;

– Avoid crowds in the work environment;

– Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;

– Recommend the use of a mask, especially indoors;

– Avoid sharing personal items;

– Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet;

– Keep the work environment clean;



It is important to keep these guidelines and others that are relevant to each company properly communicated to employees through tools such as posters, email, intranet notices or pop-ups.



What about illnesses?


Even if the precautions outlined above are taken, colder weather will cause respiratory illnesses among employees. Therefore, it is necessary to have a transparent policy on this subject.

Among the most important guidelines, we can consider:



Testing


Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is undoubtedly the first action that comes to mind for anyone with cold symptoms. Instruct your team to take the antigen or PCR test at a trusted location.



Home Office or Certificate


Regardless of the test result, it is necessary to observe the employee's clinical condition. At this time, medical certificates are more common and, if the result is positive for COVID-19, the health authorities recommend isolation. In other words, if the employee is in a suitable condition, he or she can remain working from home during the period.



Guidelines


Remember that this is a time when employees have many questions. Therefore, provide them with guidance and information. Also practice empathy: show interest in asking if the employee is feeling well, if they need help, etc.