Complete Story
03/04/2020
Coronavirus and Influenza Update
The coronavirus has most companies concerned about the impact it will have on absenteeism and supply chain. While it is true that the coronavirus is spreading, importantly there are almost extremely few cases in the United States right now. Of the 326 million people living in the United States, only 60 confirmed cases of people being diagnosed in the U.S. with coronavirus, and only 11 of them were not related to travel by that person or their domestic partner. While the coronavirus is new and much is not known, here is what experts from the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control, and other experts have learned:
• The virus is moderately infectious, mainly through sneezing and coughing, but possibly also contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with sneezes and coughs.
• More than 80% of the confirmed coronavirus cases are not severe and people generally make a full recovery.
• The mild cases may resemble having the common cold. The ones that are worse mostly resemble having the flu.
A greater threat to absenteeism is the flu and influenza-like illnesses (ILI), which have stormed through the United States this year, with 43 states reporting high activity right now, with more than 140,000 new cases each week so far this year.
The same behaviors used to ward off the flu can ward off the coronavirus:
• Frequent hand washing - particularly after touching items used by many people (i.e.: handles on drawers, refrigerators, etc.)
• Don't touch your face - this will keep the virus away from your mouth and nose, because we can't be washing our hands all day every day.
• Stay home when you feel sick.
• Wear a mask if you believe you are sick or are around sick people, if masks are available.
• Use antibacterial wipes to clean counters and tables in common areas every day.
• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow to cover any "spray".
• Every time you cough or sneeze, wash your hands immediately for at least 20 seconds.
• If you can get masks, then distribute them to employees who request them.
• Throw tissues away in lined trash cans.
Source: Fisher Phillips, March 3, 2020
Comprehensive FAQs For Employers On The COVID-19 Coronavirus
Fisher Phillips has assembled a cross-disciplinary task force of attorneys across the country to address the many employment-related issues facing employers in the wake of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The COVID-19 Task force has created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, which will be continually updated as events warrant. You can contact any member of the Taskforce with specific questions, and a full listing of the Taskforce members and their practice areas is at the end of this publication.
U.S. health officials have advised that Americans should be prepared for significant disruption due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
You and your family’s health are always our priority. Our clinical team is in regular contact with public health experts around the world, and we are committed to helping you stay informed and prepared as the situation evolves.
Teladoc doctors can answer questions about the disease, evaluate your risk, and provide support by phone or video to help relieve symptoms for affected patients, addressing both physical and mental health needs.
Read more information on Coronavirus from Teladoc
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