Return-to-office mandates will bring a lot of people back to the workplace as of January 2025 – just in time for peak cold, flu and COVID season in the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re getting ready to navigate the transition to in-person work, it’s a good idea to take some proactive steps to prevent illness and stop the spread of germs. A well-stocked wellness toolkit at your desk, in your workspace or inside your purse or bag will go a long way to keep you healthy – when you’re on the job and off the clock.
What should I have on hand to help me stay healthy at work?
In-person work places are a hot spot for germs, viruses and bacteria. And it doesn’t take long for those germs to spread. According to a University of Arizona study, when someone comes to work sick, about half of commonly touched surfaces in the office will be infected by lunchtime.
These eight workplace wellness essentials will help you keep germs at bay:
- Hand sanitizer. It’s estimated that 80 percent of germs are transferred by touch, which is why washing your hands is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infectious illness. When soap and water aren’t easily accessible, hand sanitizer is the next best way to tamp down germs. Be sure to follow CDC recommendations and use a hand sanitizer that includes at least 60% alcohol.
- Disinfectant wipes. Bacteria can stick around for hours on computer keyboards, phones, staplers and other high-touch office surfaces, and viruses can linger for up to a week. Most disinfectant wipes claim they can kill up to 99.9% of germs. When selecting a product, read the fine print on the packaging to make sure it’s approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Facial tissues. This personal hygiene essential plays a big role in preventing the spread of germs. A sneeze can produce particles that can travel as far as 26 feet and droplets can stay in the air for up to 10 minutes. Be sure to always dispose of used tissue in a trash can.
- Reusable water bottle. With around 60 percent of body weight made of water, it’s no surprise that your body needs it to function and fight off illness.
How much water you need varies from person to person. In general, the National Academy of Medicine recommends about 13 cups a day for men and 9 cups for women. - Herbal tea. Numerous studies show that certain teas can bolster the immune system and offer antiviral benefits. Good options include green, ginger, chamomile, turmeric and hibiscus.
- Plants or an air purifier. Germs spread more easily in indoor spaces with poor airflow. If you can’t let fresh air in to reduce your risk of exposure, add a plant or two to freshen your workspace. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen and some, like spider plants and peace lilies, can even absorb indoor pollutants. An air purifier can also increase airflow and reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses and bacteria.
- Face masks. While no longer required in most non-health care workplaces, a high-quality face mask is still considered one of the effective ways to protect against infectious particles and lower the risk of transmitting germs.
- Stress ball. Good stress can leave you feeling energized and focused at work, but chronic stress can take a toll on your immune system. Stress balls can give it a boost by improving blood circulation and stimulating muscles and nerves.
What are some other ways I can protect myself from getting sick?
Along with stocking your wellness arsenal, there are other steps you can take to protect yourself from getting sick:
- Stay up to date on flu and COVID vaccines.
- Get enough exercise.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid touching your mouth, eyes, nose
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Get enough sleep.
- Manage your stress levels.
- Keep your distance from people who are sick.
- Stay home if you’re sick…or go home as soon as possible if you get sick at work.
If you do get a bug, it may not be easy to make the decision when to head to the office and when to stay home. Indigo offers some helpful guidance on what to do when you get sick at work.
Make Indigo part of your wellness strategy
Even when you take precautions, colds, flu, COVID and other illnesses are going to happen. When they do, Indigo is here to provide the care you need, when you need it.
Just walk into one of our convenient locations, book an appointment online, or schedule a face-to-face Indigo Virtual Care visit from the comfort of home – or wherever a bug has you down.
An Indigo clinician will assess your symptoms and recommend treatment options or prescribe medication if needed. All of our clinic locations offer rapid testing for flu, strep and COVID-19, so you’ll get your results in no time.
In-person and virtually, Indigo is here 8 am to 8 pm, every day.
