We know it seems early to think about, but cold and flu season will be here before you know it. Just like clockwork, as temperatures dip and indoor activities rise, so does the risk of illness — from the common cold to the flu and even respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Whether you want to keep staffing disruptions to a minimum or kids in the classroom, every industry can benefit from a proactive approach with a comprehensive hand hygiene and surface disinfection protocol.
Here’s your cold and flu prevention playbook:
- Audit your cleaning procedures and hygiene inventory
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently
- Place hygiene products in key areas
- Educate staff and set hygiene standards
Understanding Cold and Flu Prevention
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most respiratory viruses — including the common cold, flu, and RSV — are spread through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
While that’s the most common way they’re spread, it can also be through contact with a surface or object an infected person has touched. How long a virus can be infectious on a hard object can vary depending on the type of virus and environmental conditions, but some studies indicate it can be for many hours after.
Think about it like this — a person sick with the flu coughs into their hand, then touches a table in a public space. You come along and unknowingly put your hand on the same spot then touch your face. All of a sudden, you’re not feeling so hot!
1. Audit Your Cleaning Procedures and Hygiene Inventory
Preparation is everything. While cold and flu season typically runs from October through May, auditing your procedures and supplies early ensures you’ll be ready when the first wave hits.
- Ensure staff are trained on day-to-day cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
- Check to make sure hand soap and sanitizer dispensers are functioning properly, so you have time to replace them if necessary.
- Make sure your inventory isn’t expired.
- Opt for high-quality hand sanitizers and soaps that people will be more likely to use, like those formulated with moisturizers to combat dry hands.
- Choose surface disinfectants and sanitizers that can tackle a variety of germs on a range of surfaces, like PURELL® disinfectant and sanitizer sprays and wipes.
2. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Frequently
High-touch surfaces are the hotspots for germ transfer. Make sure staff use disinfectants regularly throughout the day.
Examples of high-touch areas to disinfect include:
- Handrails and doorknobs
- Touch screens and elevator buttons
- Shopping carts and counters
- Breakroom and cafeteria tables
- Coffee stations and condiment displays
3. Place Hygiene Products in Key Areas
Accessibility is key to usage. Place hand sanitizer dispensers and surface disinfecting products in high-traffic, visible areas to encourage proper hygiene. Place:
- Place dispensers in high-traffic areas, like near doors and entrances.
- Dispenser stands can help boost use in areas like lobbies, airport waiting areas, or anywhere a line might form.
- Hand sanitizer bottles can be placed on tabletops and counters.
- Keep surface sprays and wipes handy so staff can access them easily.
4. Educate Staff and Set Hygiene Standards
Reminders work. Posters, training, and visible signage reinforce hygiene practices and keep staff accountable.
- Use “Please wash hands” signs in restrooms.
- Provide handwashing and hand sanitizing training.
- Reinforce cleaning protocols for surface products.
In fact, the CDC reports that handwashing alone reduces respiratory illness by 21%. By setting standards and providing tools, you empower your team to stop germs in their tracks.
The Bottom Line About Cold and Flu Prevention
No one wants to get sick. By proactively auditing procedures, disinfecting surfaces, placing hygiene products strategically, and educating staff, you can reduce illness, minimize disruptions, and protect your organization’s bottom line.
Partner with Imperial Dade This Cold and Flu Season
At Imperial Dade, we have everything you need to prepare for cold and flu season, from hand soaps and sanitizers to surface disinfectants and wipes.
With over 130+ locations and decades of experience, we’re the trusted partner for schools, businesses, healthcare facilities, and more.
👉 Shop our hygiene and disinfecting solutions today and keep your facility healthy, safe, and ready this cold and flu season.