Winter is officially here, and with it comes rising Covid and flu infections. To keep your business space safe and sanitary this winter, it’s important to take precautions and schedule regular cleaning and disinfecting. This is especially true given the recent rise in Covid cases again in the USA, coupled with the new Omicron subvariants.
What's the Latest Covid Information?
According to the CDC, two new Omicron subvariants have become dominant within the US. This is obviously raising considerable concern that these two new subvariants could fuel another Covid infection surge this winter. The new subvariants are called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 and so far, they appear to be the most adaptable yet at evading any built-up immunity from either vaccines or previous infection, and information coming through suggests that these two new subvariants could be as much as seven times more immune evasive!
Data from the CDC shows that infections are quickly gaining ground and these two new subvariants have now overtaken the previous BA.5 Omicron variant and are currently accounting for nearly 60% of all infections in some parts of the country such as New York and New Jersey.
The new strains are becoming dominant just as winter is approaching and this is only set to continue with people travelling and gathering for the holidays, therefore extra precautions to prevent the spread of infection need to be put in place. This should be a priority for business owners in regard to maintaining a safe and sanitary work environment to minimize the risk of spread.
Add in the Winter Flu Season!
As temperatures dip and people start to spend more time indoors, the flu season starts to kick in. Flu season sucks at the best of times but throw in two new Covid variants into the mix and we have the potential for an exceptionally long winter of sickness.
This year is going to be just as important as the previous two years, as we already have an ongoing pandemic to contend with. We know that the Covid virus and other influenza viruses can both be spread through similar means – via aerosolized droplets from coughing or sneezing – making it extra important to ensure your business space is kept clean and sanitary.
As such, it’s essential that everyone takes the necessary precautions and steps to ensure rising Covid and flu infections are kept at bay. Maintaining a safe environment includes keeping your office or facility clean, sanitizing regularly, and encouraging staff to get their flu vaccine and all of their Covid immunisations.
Preventing the Spread of Rising Covid and Flu Infections is Key.
Keeping everyone safe and healthy, and implementing a strict cleaning schedule will go a long way in safeguarding your employees. Consider all areas that require frequent disinfecting, including doorknobs, desktops, and shared surfaces. Frequent cleaning and regular disinfecting are key to reducing your risk of contracting a virus or spreading it to others within your facility. It’s important that you use an EPA-registered disinfectant on all high-touch surfaces and follow all safety protocols. This way, you can keep your office space safe from germs and stop the rising Covid and flu infections from rising more, ensuring that everyone stays healthy this winter season!
In addition, make sure everyone is frequently washing their hands and using hand sanitizer throughout the day. It’s also important to keep your office space properly ventilated in order to reduce the spread of germs. Have a system in place to ensure that windows are opened regularly for fresh air circulation. You may also consider bringing in a dehumidifier and running an air purification system to ensure the air quality is up to standards.
Finally, make sure everyone is following safety protocols when it comes to sneezing or coughing into their elbow, and wearing masks/face shields if possible. This can help to prevent the spread of germs and keep everyone safe.
By keeping your office clean and sanitary this winter, you can ensure that your employees are safe and reduce the risk of any illnesses spreading throughout the workplace.
Surviving Winter with A-1 Cleaning.
The only way to keep the virus’ at bay and stop the rising Covid and flu infections is through intensive and consistent cleaning and disinfecting. When it comes to keeping the virus’ away, we’ve got you covered. Cleanliness in the workplace has become a must for every business. Employees expect it and you want to avoid your employees getting sick.
Luckily, our team at A-1 Cleaning have got you covered. We’re highly experienced at keeping the most congested workspaces hygienically clean. From office, retail and warehouse facility cleaning and disinfecting we also specialize in medical and speciality clean spaces. We know what it takes to keep bugs out!
Let’s all work together to keep our businesses and communities safe.
Contact us today for a free consultation on any of our services or further information. Make sure you are prepared this winter!
