With the flu season fast approaching, building owners and facility managers should evaluate their cleaning and sanitation processes in preparation for potential outbreaks. The 2017-2018 flu season was one of the worst seasons in recent years, showing high severity across all age groups, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC estimates that an average of 5% to 20% of the U.S. population is impacted by the flu every year. Flu and virus outbreaks can have a big impact on the bottom line as a result of loss in productivity and revenue. A study done by Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. earlier this year predicted that productivity losses across the nation for the 2017-2018 flu season could reach $15.4 billion.
“While the severity of the flu season may fluctuate year over year, we know that there is a strong likelihood there will be cases occurring in every facility and building,” says Tim Kane, President and CEO of Goodway Technologies. “It’s important to be proactive and have a plan in place to prevent the flu virus from spreading.”