A Medical director of health and security services firm International SOS, Dr. Low Kiang Wei states his concerns about the dual-threat on the workforce; a combination of COVID-19 and seasonal flu.
Dr. Low Kiang Wei said that another challenge this year is to be dealt with, the seasonal flu.
“Both of them are highly infectious and can be severe when left untreated,” he added.
Protocols to avoid the widespread must be applied, especially in established businesses that could potentially send a hit to business operations and productivity once their employees are being sent for medical leave, quarantine, or even worse; in critical condition.
As basic knowledge, the impacts of a person being infected not only affect them but to everyone the person is close with; family members, friends, or even colleagues from the same workplace.
The chain of events from a widespread can end up tearing down businesses, supply chains, and industries, affecting the overall economy.
“There are significant concerns on how this potential ‘twindemic’ could undo some of the recovery progress businesses and economies have made so far, apart from crippling business performance and depleting workforce morale,” Dr. Low continued.
Some factors must be thought through to come up with a preparedness plan, starting by identifying high risks; domestic and overseas employees (suppliers, partners, customers), precautions when being in the same room as others, preventive medication, or other healthcare options and remote business operations. Once these risks are taken note of, the business must draft a plan that ensures the entirety of business continuity.
The plan must outline the procedures for decision-making, critical services for the running business, actions to imply once a case is reported, and triggers.
Dr. Low Kiang Wei warns employers about the impact of a ‘twindemic’ on their workforce | Credit: International SOS
The protocols should also consider the overall well-being of their employees, whether they can do certain tasks efficiently or the other.
“The protocols should factor in processes to monitor and manage employees’ fear, anxiety, or misinformation about the twindemic, as well as addressing concerns and misconceptions about influenza vaccinations that could deter employees from taking them,” Dr. Low said.
Of course, the flu vaccine is widely available. It can be taken as a preventive measure for high-risk employees that can bring about the potential downfall of business productivity.
Dr. Low recommends a flu vaccination program for the employees for optimal care.
Even when one is already infected, the chances of a cluster could happen. Businesses are to inform public health authorities to take guidance from there, but until then, it is better to take every step in taking care of the well-being of the employees, before it is too late.
Source: Human Resources Director Asia
