Falls is officially here and that means cool nights, cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice. But it also means flu season time…
The more you know about the flu the better prepared you’ll be to stay healthy and keep your team going strong.
10 Flu Facts You Might Not Know*
1. The flu and a cold are not the same.
Yes, they can feel similar. But the flu hits harder and faster. Think fever, body aches, chills, and serious fatigue. A cold usually builds slowly. The flu doesn’t wait.
2. You can spread the flu before you feel sick.
The flu virus is sneaky. You can spread it a full day before flu symptoms even start. That means Monday meetings can turn into Thursday sick days for the whole team.
3. The flu virus changes every year.
That’s why the flu shot is updated annually. Scientists study which strains are spreading around the globe and design the vaccine to match. It’s like updating your cell phone software, it keeps you protected.
4. Healthy people can still get seriously sick.
Even if you’re young and in great shape, the flu can knock you out for a week or more. And in rare cases, it can lead to complications like pneumonia or other serious illnesses. Staying healthy isn’t a guarantee, but a flu shot helps reduce your risk.
5. Flu season isn’t caused by cold weather but the virus likes it.
The flu virus thrives in dry, cold air. That’s why winter is its favorite time to make the rounds — especially indoors with the windows shut.
6. The flu can spread up to six feet.
Yep. Just talking, coughing, or sneezing can launch flu droplets into the air and onto surfaces. Your keyboard? Coffee pot? Equipment handle? All fair game.
7. The flu shot doesn’t just protect you.
It helps protect that coworker who’s pregnant, your manager’s toddler at home, and the teammate who takes care of an elderly parent. When enough people get vaccinated, it slows the spread — even protecting folks who can’t get the shot themselves.
8. You can get flu and COVID at the same time.
Double trouble. Experts call it “flurona,” and it’s as nasty as it sounds. Getting your flu shot is one powerful way to reduce your risk of a miserable viral tag-team.
9. The flu virus can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours.
Research shows that both influenza A and B viruses can live on hard surfaces — like stainless steel, plastic, and doorknobs — for up to 24 to 48 hours. That elevator button? Desk phone? Breakroom microwave handle? Yep, still contagious. (And definitely worth a wipe-down.)
10. The flu makes you feel tired because your body is working overtime.
When the flu virus enters your system, your immune response kicks into high gear. Think of it like an internal emergency crew springing into action. But all that immune system activity takes a toll. It uses up tons of energy, which is why you feel so drained. On top of that, fever (a common flu symptom) speeds up your metabolism and increases the demand for energy, leaving you even more exhausted.
Why This Matters at Work
In workplaces and job sites where people collaborate, share space, or even just pass in the hallway, that’s a big deal. Flu season doesn’t just affect sick days, it impacts productivity, morale, and overall wellness. Getting a flu shot helps protect you and the people around you.
NOTE: While the flu shot is safe and recommended for most people, there are a few exceptions and special considerations. It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual health situation.
Here are some easy ways to help prevent the spread of the flu:
- Get your flu shot
- Stay home if you’re feeling sick
- Wash your hands regularly
- Keep hand sanitizer nearby (and use it!)
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
Have more questions?
For additional well-being guidance, please reach out to Jennifer Green, Vice President of Wellbeing & Engagement at Venbrook, our preferred benefits partners, at jgreen@venbrook.com
*TotalWellness