No matter where you go, conversations and concerns about the coronavirus are everywhere. Your employees may have even voiced their worries about it potentially spreading in the workplace. However, with professional cleaning services, good hygiene, and proper health practices, your business can reduce the risk of workplace exposure. Here’s what you should know about this virus and how to protect your employees.

What Is the Coronavirus?

Coronavirus isn’t a single virus but rather a family of viruses that commonly affects many species of animals. The recent outbreak you are likely familiar with, 2019-nCoV, was first detected in Wuhan, China. This particular virus is one of the rare few coronaviruses that can spread from animals to people. What began as animal-to-person transmissions progressed to person-to-person spread, with some cases reported outside of China and a few within the United States.

Symptoms of coronavirus are much like the flu. Those infected may experience fever, cough, runny nose, headache, and sore throat. Most commonly, the virus spreads through sneezing, coughing, and close contact with an infected person. According to the CDC, it is currently unknown whether people can get 2019-nCoV by touching objects with the virus on it then touching their noses or mouths.

How Can Businesses Help Prevent It From Spreading?

To reduce the risk of transmission of 2019-nCoV and other illnesses, post signage in restrooms instructing employees to wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. Place hand sanitizer dispensers containing at least 60% alcohol in multiple locations throughout the facility. Provide plenty of cleaning supplies, tissues, and no-touch trash cans.

Most importantly, encourage employees to stay home when they’re sick. They shouldn’t return to work until they’re free of symptoms, especially fever. Make sure your sick leave policies are flexible, clear, and prioritize health. Sick employees who feel pressured to come into work will likely infect others.

Routine cleaning services will also help keep viruses like 2019-nCoV at bay. Frequently used surfaces such as keyboards, desks, countertops, and doorknobs should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Personal work stations need to be wiped down daily as well.

When your business takes the proper precautions and encourages hygienic habits, you can maintain a clean, healthy work environment.

If your business needs a dependable janitorial service to fight off viruses and bacteria, turn to Kleenco Group in Honolulu. With state-of-the-art electrostatic disinfecting and sanitation technology, this company offers thorough commercial cleaning services throughout Hawaii. To request a quote or ask about add-on services, call (808) 831-7600. Learn more about their cleaning services online.