Follow Centers for Disease Control Guidence to limit the Spread of Flu and Viruses in Chicago Heights Area Buildings and Schools

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Tips from the CDC to lessen the spread of Viruses

When an illness like influenza threatens to sicken school children or individuals working in commercial spaces, proactive efforts are the best way to minimize the harm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests achievable goals and offers proven strategies to limit exposure to influenza and other viral illnesses in environments where many individuals have contact with each other. The CDC's "Take 3" initiative provides a robust framework to contain exposure to the pathogens that cause the diseases for Chicago Heights commercial property owners and managers along with school district administrators.

First: Immunize

The most effective way to inhibit the spread of influenza in the Chicago Heights school system and other commercial workspaces is by encouraging broad-based immunization. Every year a new iteration of the flu shot emerges in the United States after data collection worldwide and collaboration among over 100 international health entities. Specialized versions of the year's flu shot are also developed for groups like persons over 65 who exhibit different needs.

Organizing flu shot clinics at schools, governmental offices, or shared spaces in commercial builds is an excellent way to make immunizations more accessible to targeted groups. When many individuals develop antibodies against influenza because of flu shots, the spread of the disease naturally slows. The immunization of others protects those who cannot tolerate the shot like infants younger than six months and others for whom it is contraindicated. The risk of coming in contact with someone who has the disease decreases with this "herd immunity."

Second: Reduce Exposure to the Virus 

Effective methods to avoid physical contact with the pathogens that cause influenza or other viral illness include attention to basic hygiene and thorough cleaning and disinfection of spaces and surfaces. Actions that help stop the spread of germs include washing hands frequently with soap and water, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Suggesting to students that they say the alphabet or sing the happy birthday song before rinsing ensures that scrubbing lasts long enough.

Covering both mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing with a tissue that is then discarded helps as well. Staying home from school or work during illness is also a proven way to reduce giving influenza to others. Persistently cleaning objects and surfaces touched by people with EPA-registered products also reduces the virus levels, minimizing the chance of contamination that could result in infection.  

Third: Obtain Medical Interventions

Doctors can prescribe antiviral drugs to treat influenza. Taking antiviral medication can make any illness milder and shorten its duration. The medicine might also prevent serious complications that can occur during infection with a virus.

Rely on SERVPRO of Chicago Heights / Crete / Beecher to work with facility management of businesses and schools to reduce the risk of influenza and virus exposure. Our cleaning and disinfection specialists are available by calling (708) 672-0077.