Here are actions that all of us can do to minimize the spread of the flu in our university workplace:

• Take proper care of personal protective equipment, regularly replacing disposable equipment and properly cleaning and disinfecting reusable equipment.
• Wash your hands often. Use soap under water and rub hands together vigorously for up to 20 seconds.
• Cover your mouth and nose during coughing and sneezing or use a tissue and dispose of used tissues in a waste bin.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Do not use a coworker’s work tools, desk, phone or computer.
• Minimize the number of group meetings; instead, communicate through email or phone calls.
• When meetings are necessary, ensure the meeting space is properly ventilated and that workers are not required to be within six feet of one another.
• Limit unnecessary visitors in the workplace.
• Get a seasonal influenza vaccination.

OSHA offers additional recommendations for workers:

• Stay home when sick.
• Avoid shaking hands. Always wash your hands after physical contact with others.
• If wearing gloves, wash your hands after removing them.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle. Get adequate rest, follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to help maintain physical and emotional health.