While it can happen any time, it's more common to catch the flu, or experience flu like symptoms, in the colder months of the year (April to October).  This means that the ‘flu season’ is upon us.

In the workplace, the flu can be easily spread.  Following are 6 tips to help with increasing your chances of avoiding the flu:-

Get a flu shot

It is important to get the influenze vaccintation each year to continue to be protected, since it wears off after 3 to 4 months. Flu strains (types) also change over time.

Wash your hands

In addition to vaccination, good hygiene is one of the best ways to help prevent colds and flu from spreading. Wash your hands regularly

Cover coughs and sneezes

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Bin your tissues

Throw disposable tissues in the bin immediately after using them.

Avoid Sharing

Don’t share cups, plates, cutlery and towels with other people, if you can.

Keep surfaces clean

Clean surfaces such as your keyboard, telephone and door handles regularly to get rid of germs.

Self-care at home

In most cases you can treat mild cold or flu symptoms at home.

The best care is rest and fluids.

For assistance with leave for absences during this flu season, please contact a member of our HR advisory team via email at [email protected] or via telephone at 1300 720 004.

Information in HR Advice Online guides and blog posts is meant purely for educational discussion of human resources issues. It contains only general information about human resources matters and due to factors such as government legislation changes, may not be up-to-date at the time of reading. It is not legal advice and should not be treated as such.