Dealing with the flu at work

The flu can spread quickly through a workplace, especially in the cooler months. If you’re one of the unlucky ones who caught the flu, here are a few tips on how to survive at work.

First things first, check for COVID-19

Flu and COVID-19 can look alike, so consider taking a rapid antigen test (RAT) before heading off to work. Queensland Health advises that it is no longer mandatory to isolate if you test positive to COVID-19, but it recommends that anyone with COVID-19 or symptoms of an acute respiratory infection stay at home until their symptoms have substantially reduced and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. For 5 days after a positive test or the start of symptoms, it also recommends wearing a mask indoors outside your home, and you should follow any requirements your employer has set. Only call Triple Zero (000) or go to an emergency department if you have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing.

For more information, see the current Queensland Health COVID-19 guidelines.

Should you go to work sick?

If you’re really sick with the flu, you may have to stay home and rest. If you have to come into work, try to keep your distance from other people as much as possible and be sure to wash your hands often.

Do you have the common cold or the flu?

If you’re not sure whether you have the flu or a cold, there are a few key differences to look out for. Flu symptoms tend to be more severe and include fever, body aches, and fatigue. Cold symptoms are usually milder and include a runny nose, congestion, and a sore throat.

When should you see a doctor?

If your symptoms are severe or if you’re having trouble breathing, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Other red flags include chest pain, sudden dizziness, or vomiting. If you’re not sure whether your symptoms warrant a trip to the doctor or emergency room, give 13HEALTH a call. They’ll be able to advise you on what to do next.

How can you focus on work when you have the flu?

• Make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest.
• If you’re feeling really overwhelmed, see if there’s someone at work who can help pick up the slack.
• Try to take things one step at a time and not put too much pressure on yourself.
• Remember, it’s okay to take a day or two off to recover from the flu!

How to recover from the flu

• Make sure you’re getting plenty of rest.
• Drink lots of fluids and take over-the-counter medication if needed.
• Eat healthy foods that will help boost your immune system, such as chicken soup.

How to prevent the flu

• Make sure you’re getting the flu vaccine each year.
• Practice good hygiene habits like washing your hands often.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise

The flu is a serious virus that can have severe consequences. If you’re dealing with the flu at work, it’s important to take some precautions to avoid spreading the virus. And if you’re feeling sick, the best thing to do is stay home and rest. With these tips in mind, you can help make it through the flu season without too much trouble. Stay healthy!

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