Editor’s Note: This article is updated annually and has been modified to include new ideas and health and wellness promotional items.
With chilly weather comes mugs of hot cocoa, cozy sweaters and beautiful views. However, it also brings colds and flu. Flu season peaks between December and February, and the flu and pneumonia are among Canada’s top 10 leading causes of death. The common cold is one of the main reasons Canadians miss work. In our annual cold and flu prevention update, we offer ideas plus health and wellness promotional items to help prevent and recover from colds and flu.
Don’t let germs stand a chance
Ward off germs with simple measures that go a long way. Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent germs from spreading. Sanitizing is the next best thing. The 1 oz. Hand Sanitizer bottle conveniently stashes in bags, briefcases and backpacks. Keep portable Sanitizer Stations at workspaces so staff can frequently kill off any germs lurking on their hands.
Hand Sanitizer Spray easily fits in a pocket. With a quick spritz, harmful germs can be eliminated. The Touchless Foam Dispenser provides peace of mind by being contact-free. Place it in high-traffic areas, like doorways, entryways and hallways.
Provide quick comfort
Sometimes, no matter how many preventive measures you take, staff and patients will get sick with colds and flu. Help them recover quickly with health and wellness promotional items. A turtle-shaped hot/cold pack or Head and Sinus Thermal Wrap can soothe sinuses. A Tissue Wallet comes in handy day and night for someone struggling with the sniffles.
Consider the flu shot
The flu shot has been shown to reduce the risk of getting the flu by about 50%. Hand out Branded Stickers as reminders to get a flu shot. Also consider outfitting patients and staff with a Pill Box. They can stock it with their daily vitamins or, if they do get sick, they can use it to remind them to take their meds.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Staying hydrated is key to staying healthy. A stainless bottle or glass bottle is an effective reminder to refill and drink up. A silicone reusable tea bag and tea and coffee mug with lid encourage people to start their morning off right with a soothing, hot beverage. Keep Bottled Water on hand so staff can easily grab water all hours of the day. A vacuum mug is a great health and wellness promotional item because it can keep water or another healthy beverage hot or cold for hours.
Get some ZZ’s
Staying rested is a great way to prevent the body from succumbing to the common cold or flu. A Shut Eye Travel Eye Mask helps people get plenty of rest at home and while travelling. A lavender-scented Aromatic Friend can help calm their body and mind so they relax and rest. A Bear Plush Pillow is a wellness promotional item that can make anyone smile and fall into a deep comfortable sleep. Encourage patients and staff to do a restful activity before bed. An Adult Colouring Book To-Go Set comes with coloured pencils. A Robo Cube Puzzle is another fabulous screen-free way for people to wind down before bed.
Stay healthy all winter long
With safety measures like stocking up on sanitizer and staying hydrated, plus using helpful health and wellness promotional items, it’s easier for your staff and patients to stay healthy during cold and flu season.