COVID-19: Preventive measures for your organization

The Coronavirus has spread across the globe and been declared as a pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO). According to the WHO, coronavirus belongs to the virus family that causes diseases like the common cold, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The virus spreads through coughing, sneezing, and direct contact with infected people. There are no vaccines or cures for the Coronavirus as this strain has never been seen before. Scientists around the world are working together to develop a vaccine.  The CDC lists some of common symptoms of the Coronavirus as:

• Runny nose

• Cough

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Fever

What can employers do to prevent the virus?

• Spread awareness about the virus and its symptoms

• Encourage employees to wash their hands often, and provide hand sanitizer

• Use disinfectants and sterilizers to clean surfaces, door knobs, dining areas, water coolers, desktops, and copiers

• Allow employees to take leave or work from home when they are sick

• Tweak your sick leave policies for a certain time period, if necessary

• Ensure that your workplace has a proper ventilation system

• Sponsor free flu vaccines to prevent the spread of influenza

• Avoid business trips to countries where there has been a coronavirus outbreak

• Provide masks to help employees, and avoid contact with infected people

What can employees do to prevent the virus?

• Avoid contact with people who have a cold or fever

• Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer regularly

• Sneeze or cough into your upper sleeve or a tissue, not your hands

• Stay at home if you have or think you have the flu

• Avoid contact with wild and farm animals without proper protection

• Do not touch your eyes, mouth, or nose without washing your hands

• Drink enough water to keep your throat moist all the time

• Seek medical help if you have any coronavirus symptoms

• Ensure your food is cooked properly before consuming

The Coronavirus is sparking fears among people around the world. The virus can cause acute diseases including pneumonia, SARS, and MERS. It is especially dangerous for those with weakened immune systems, like children and the elderly. In rare cases, it can lead to death. As there is no specific vaccine to cure the disease, it’s vital to take the preventive measures to contain the virus from spreading further.