Flu fight

Fri, Sep 4, 2009 (3 a.m.)

Recent reports about the upcoming flu season paint a dark picture: Half the population could contract the H1N1 (swine flu) virus, and hospitals could be swamped treating people.

The estimates in the reports were not meant to terrify the public. They were meant to inspire people to get ready.

As Nicole Lucht reported in last week’s In Business Las Vegas, the federal government is calling on businesses to be prepared. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said the flu is expected to have a “significant impact.”

“It’s in the employers’ economic self-interest to be flexible and as accommodating as possible,” he said.

The federal government is suggesting that businesses, particularly small ones, prepare for the upcoming flu season — and the potential increase in sick days — by assessing staffing needs and cross-training employees. It says that businesses should be prepared for parents with children having to take time off if their children are sick or schools close.

Employers are also encouraged to stagger shifts or allow employees to work from home if possible. Sick employees should be strongly discouraged from coming to work if they have the flu. Health officials also remind employers to make sure people are practicing basic hygiene, including washing their hands.

This may sound like overkill considering that the concerns about swine flu last year never came to fruition. However, if the flu is half as bad as predicted, it could sideline the entire staff of a small business.

The answer is to take steps now to be ready, just in case. The health of your bottom line could be at stake.