Every time you turn on the news or go on Facebook the past few weeks, you are bombarded with the latest updates from friends about this year’s epidemic: Coronavirus. Whatever your thoughts are on the matter, it is definitely a topic to be aware of. Especially in the workplace, where germs can abound if you don’t take precautions.
What is the coronavirus?
When you see people posting about the Coronavirus, they are talking about COVID-19, which is summarized here: “It is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that has never been encountered before. Like other coronaviruses, it has come from animals. Many of those initially infected either worked or frequently shopped in the Huanan seafood wholesale market in the centre of the Chinese city.”
It can cause pneumonia-like symptoms, and it is not something you can take antibiotics for.
Protect yourself at work
As I mentioned, the workplace is a hotbed for germs and infection. But there are things you can do to keep yourself healthy, and not having to miss a ton of work. These things include:
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
If you have a lot of touchy feely coworkers, maybe don’t go in for that hug or handshake. It is also perfectly fine in most situations to keep a closed door policy for your office unless absolutely necessary.
Not touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
If you absolutely need to, try to wash your hands first.
Staying home when you are sick.
Yes, the American workplace is not always supportive of excessive sick time, and there is the possibility that you might be penalized in some way. But if it protects the wellness of your coworkers, who may have small children or elderly relatives at home, it really is best to stay home.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
It doesn’t hurt to wipe down the things you touch most throughout the day a few times during your shift. Keep a tub of disinfectant wipes handy, and some antibacterial gel. You can also upgrade your office equipment if you are especially concerned.
This Flexispot monitorstand workstation has a lot of really great features, one of which is integrated UV sterilization. UV sterilization will be helpful to anyone worried they aren’t cleaning their workstation enough. Many of us are busy and don’t have the time to constantly be cleaning. Or maybe we just get wrapped up in our work and forget.
This workstand is the world’s first monitor stand with UV sterilization. It is leading the way in the industry for healthier, safer workplaces. It also has great space saving options, a USB charging port, and space to hang accessories.
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom and before eating.
This is a good standard practice anyway, especially during flu season.
Stay healthy this winter
While the CDC is labeling the COVID-19 as a serious health issue, there is no need to be immediately concerned. There are plenty of ways you can keep yourself prepared.
1.Know what the symptoms are, mainly coughing, fever, and issues breathing.
2. Be aware of how it spreads. Regular hand washing is super important!
3. Know your risks. Experts say the average American has a low risk of contracting it, but it is still good to be employing appropriate health practices.
4. Try not to sensationalize. Experts also say that most people recover from rest and fluids, so there is no need to spread panic and false information.
At the end of the day, we are also in flu season. So take the same sorts of precautions you would take to avoid contracting the flu, and keep your workspace as clean as possible with a better workstand, and you will likely be able to stay healthy.