Protecting your people this season: Practical infection prevention tips

As cooler months approach, respiratory infections like influenza, COVID-19, the common cold, and RSV tend to rise—especially in indoor environments where people gather closely. These seasonal illnesses lead to millions of infections and thousands of hospitalizations each year. Emerging strains, such as avian and swine flu, further underscore the need for proactive prevention.

Workplaces are particularly vulnerable to the spread of these infections, which can result in employee absences, reduced productivity, and health risks for employees. Here are practical steps organizations can take to protect their teams and maintain business continuity:

Support vaccination efforts.

Vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal infections. Encourage employees to get their annual flu shot and consider RSV vaccination for high-risk groups. Hosting on-site clinics or partnering with local providers can make access easier and increase participation.

Offer flexible sick leave policies.

When employees feel safe staying home while sick, it helps prevent the spread of illness. In a 2023 study, nearly 90% of US employees reported working while sick, and 40% hesitated to use available sick leave. On average 16% (range 9–33%) of influenza transmission occurs in the workplace. Sick employees also experience slower reaction times, increased anxiety, and reduced efficiency. Flexible policies support both health and productivity.

Promote hygiene practices.

Make handwashing stations and alcohol-based sanitizers readily available. Reinforce the importance of proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette—like covering coughs and sneezes with tissues or elbows. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers helpful posters and training materials to support these efforts.

Improve ventilation and cleaning.

Viruses spread more easily in poorly ventilated spaces. Review HVAC systems to ensure proper airflow and filtration. Clean high-touch surfaces regularly. While routine cleaning is typically sufficient, providing disinfectants and disposable towels empowers employees to keep their workspaces clean.

Communicate clearly and consistently.

Share updates on infection activity levels in your state, prevention tips, and company policies. Centers for Disease Control provides Respiratory Virus Activity Levels by state, Respiratory Illness Season Toolkit and other resources for communication. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has resources for seasonal flu.

Plan for business continuity.

Include infection-related contingencies in your business continuity plans. Prepare for staffing shortages and explore remote work options where feasible.

Why it matters

Seasonal infection prevention isn’t just about health—it’s about protecting your people and your business. By taking these steps, organizations can foster a safer, more resilient workplace.

Source

Respiratory illness season toolkit, CDC (2025)
Guilty until proven sick: why US workers don't take sick leave, BambooHR (2023).
Influenza in workplaces: transmission, workers' adherence to sick leave advice and European sick leave recommendations, Hansen Edwards, Christina, Scalia Tomba, Gianpaolo, Freiesleben de Blasio, Birgitte (2016).
Hygiene and respiratory virueses prevention, CDC (2025).
Employer GuidanceReducing Non-Healthcare Workers' Exposures to Seasonal Flu Virus, OSHA (n.d.)
Respiratory virus activity levels, CDC (2025).
Seasonal flu, OSHA (n.d.).

Reference to specific commercial products, manufacturers, companies, or trademarks does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the U.S. Government, Department of Health and Human Services, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The material is otherwise available on the agency website for no charge.