The flu is a seasonal problem for most workplaces, especially during the cooler months of the year. There are many factors that play a role in the potential spread of flu-causing viruses. One example would be central air-conditioning systems that are common in office buildings.
While the cool air may be good for escaping the excruciating heat outside, it can pose a threat to your health. Since doors and windows have to be closed in air-conditioned spaces, this environment may encourage viruses to circulate within the space. Most employees tough it out and go to work despite having the flu, and put themselves at risk of developing more serious symptoms and potentially harming other coworkers.
Be one step ahead of flu symptoms and the viruses responsible for them. Let this guide help you learn about common flu symptoms and how to stay on top of your workday despite illness.
Take Note of Common Flu Symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discourages premature visits to the emergency room unless the illness is considered an emergency. In fact, health experts advise that people dealing with flu symptoms remain at home to stop the spread of disease-causing viruses or contact a health professional to discuss the ideal next steps. In the meantime, you must manage early symptoms that manifest such as:
-
Fever
-
Cough and colds
-
Body aches
-
Stuffy and runny nose
-
Fatigue
If you work in an office setting, ideally, you should take some time off to allow your body to rest and ensure others do not get sick. Sadly, not all employees take advantage of their sick leave for fear of missing out on important deadlines, tasks, or events. Nowadays, working while sick is a common occurrence in some offices, although it is not a practice that is heavily encouraged.
However, if you are determined to continue working, learn these tips on how to stay productive despite the flu, without spreading the illness to your coworkers.
- Cover your mouth, especially when coughing or sneezing.
While using a face mask may not be as prevalent here in the Philippines anymore, it remains an excellent way to limit the release of infected respiratory droplets. Wear one at all times, especially if you will take public transportation to and from the office and work in a communal area.
If you have to sneeze, try to develop the habit of coughing or sneezing into your elbow to minimize the contamination of your hands. This all-important tip can help prevent your co-workers from getting sick and save your team from unnecessary work backlogs caused by unforeseen absences and leaves.
-
Rest when you can.
If taking sick leave is not an option, grab the opportunity to rest during your lunch breaks. Consider skipping meetings or seminars which do not require your participation. Try to avoid procrastination at work and learn how to manage your time so you won’t have to stay after your working hours.
- Hydrate.
Always have your water bottle within arm’s reach, especially when you are sick. Keeping yourself hydrated may help alleviate your flu symptoms, loosen mucus in your body, and assist your immune system in fighting your symptoms. Not to mention, water is essential for overall health.
Strive to drink the recommended amounts as highlighted by the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine:- Men: 3.7 liters or 15.5 cups
- Women: 2.7 liters or 11.5 cups
- Focus on your work, not on the flu.
Figuring out how to be productive when you’re sick may seem like a gargantuan task especially if you have to channel all your energy (or what is left of it).
It may be hard to follow this tip, but channeling all your strength (or what’s left of it) to your tasks instead of focusing on the flu may help you get through your day despite cough, colds, and other flu symptoms. Explore productivity apps and hacks if you need to.
-
Take much-needed medicine.
For immediate relief from flu symptoms, taking medicine that targets these can be a good strategy. There are various over-the-counter medications that help address the different types of flu symptoms one may encounter.
However, why complicate things and take multiple medicines for flu symptoms when you can rely on one formulation that helps target multiple symptoms all at once?
Phenylephrine HCl Chlorphenamine Maleate Paracetamol (Bioflu) can act in as fast as 15 minutes, especially if you have two or more of the mentioned flu symptoms. This formulation has three key components that can help you in your road to recovery:-
Phenylephrine HCl: This ingredient helps lessen swelling and congestion within the nasal passageways and sinuses, improve air flow within them, promote easier breathing, and lessen postnasal drip
-
Chlorphenamine Maleate: A known antihistamine, this substance helps relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itchy and watery eyes.
-
Paracetamol: This substance helps reduce fever and address headaches.
-
Suggested use of this medicine is one (1) tablet every six hours, or as recommended by a doctor. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Battling flu symptoms while figuring out work tasks is no easy feat, yet some workers have to grin and bear it. If you are already struggling with flu symptoms, make sure to listen to your body to determine whether you have to keep pushing through or if it’s time to call in sick for the day.
Remember that flu symptoms can affect people differently. Some people may be able to power through despite the symptoms, while others may need to take a break ASAP. Although it can be difficult at first, recognizing your limits and knowing when to stop and rest can play a big role in your recovery from these symptoms.
ASC Reference No. U0031P082724B
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/getting-through-day-while-sick
https://ghhin.org/faq/do-air-conditioning-and-ventilation-systems-increase-the-risk-of-virus-transmission-if-so-how-can-this-be-managed/#:~:text=If%20the%20air,support%20virus%20survival.
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm#:~:text=No.%20The%20emergency,provider%20for%20advice.
https://cdhf.ca/en/the-importance-of-staying-hydrated-general-hydration-and-virus-recovery/#:~:text=When%20sick%20with%20a%20virus%2C%20proper%20hydration%20can%20help%20the%20skin%20and%20mucous%20cell%20membrane%20act%20as%20a%20barrier%20to%20prevent%20bacteria%20from%20entering%20the%20body.%20%C2%A0It%20can%20also%20help%20decrease%20nasal%20irritation%20when%20coughing%2C%20sneezing%20and%20even%20just%20breathing.
https://www.nationalacademies.org/news/2004/02/report-sets-dietary-intake-levels-for-water-salt-and-potassium-to-maintain-health-and-reduce-chronic-disease-risk#:~:text=The%20report%20set,%C2%A0ounces)%20daily.
