infection workplace prevention

Overview

Workplace infection prevention means taking simple steps to stop germs from spreading between people at your job. This includes keeping your hands clean, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when you feel unwell, and cleaning shared surfaces.

Very common. Most adults get at least one respiratory infection each year, and workplaces are a frequent place for germs to pass from person to person.

Workplace infections can affect anyone who works around other people. Jobs that involve close contact, like healthcare, teaching, retail, and childcare, have a higher risk of spreading infections.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A new or worsening cough
• A fever or feeling feverish
• Sore throat
• Runny or blocked nose
• Body aches or feeling very tired
• Headache

Symptoms in children

• If your child goes to a workplace daycare or you work with children, watch for a runny nose, cough, irritability, not eating or drinking normally, or a fever.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have less classic symptoms. Watch for confusion, drowsiness, weakness, or a fall, even without a high fever.

Causes

Main causes

• Viruses and bacteria that spread through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks
• Touching surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, or shared equipment that have germs on them, then touching your face
• Close contact with coworkers, especially in poorly ventilated indoor spaces

Risk factors

• Working in healthcare or childcare
• Working in crowded or poorly ventilated buildings
• Not having up-to-date vaccinations
• Chronic medical conditions that weaken the immune system
• Working while you are already sick

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or a rash, seek same-day care.
• If your symptoms last longer than a week or keep getting worse, see a doctor.
• If you have a high fever that does not go away with rest and fluids after a couple of days.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing symptoms that interfere with your ability to work, ask for a same-day appointment with your GP or occupational health team.
• If you are at higher risk because of a medical condition, talk to a doctor early when symptoms appear.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them, and whether you have been in contact with people who are sick. They may also listen to your chest or check your throat, ears, or nose.

Tests that may be done

• A swab of your nose or throat to test for viruses like flu or COVID-19
• A blood test to check for signs of infection
• A chest X-ray or sputum sample if the doctor suspects a chest infection

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain whether you have a viral or bacterial infection and give you advice on how to manage symptoms and when it is safe to return to work. Most tests are not painful and results come back within a few days.

Treatment

Most workplace-acquired infections are caused by viruses and do not require specific medication. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest while your immune system fights the infection.

Self-care at home

• Rest and stay home from work until you feel better and your fever has gone.
• Drink plenty of water, warm drinks, or broth to stay hydrated.
• Use a warm salt gargle for sore throat unless your doctor says otherwise.
• Use over-the-counter pain and fever relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, following the instructions on the label.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw it away immediately.

Medical treatments

If a doctor determines you have a bacterial infection, such as certain types of pneumonia or strep throat, they may prescribe an antibiotic. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Antiviral treatments are sometimes offered for certain viral infections like flu or COVID-19 to people who are at higher risk. Your doctor will decide if any treatment is right for you based on your symptoms, health history, and test results.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed to treat a common workplace infection. An exception may be a severe bacterial infection like an abscess that needs draining, but this is rare.

Living with this condition

While you are recovering, focus on rest and staying away from others to avoid spreading the infection. When you return to work, continue to practice good hand hygiene and keep surfaces clean to protect others.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep while you recover and in general to keep your immune system strong.
• Manage stress, as high stress can weaken your immune defenses.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, as both can make it harder to fight off infections.

Diet and exercise

Eat balanced meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables to support your immune system. Even light physical activity like walking can help, but rest fully during an active infection to give your body time to heal.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being off work sick for several days can feel frustrating or stressful, especially if you are worried about your job. It is normal to feel a bit low. Give yourself permission to recover, and tell your employer or occupational health team how you are doing if you need support.

Prevention

Yes, many workplace infections can be prevented or limited through simple measures like frequent hand washing, avoiding touching your face, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when unwell, and keeping shared spaces clean and well ventilated.

Vaccines

Vaccination protects against several infections that can spread at work, including flu, COVID-19, and in some roles, hepatitis B. Your employer or local health service can tell you which vaccinations are recommended for your job.

Screening programmes

Screening is not usually needed for workplace infections, but some workplaces offer regular health checks. If you work in healthcare or with vulnerable people, you may be asked to have tests for certain infections as part of your job contract.

Complications

If left untreated

• A common cold or flu can progress to a sinus or chest infection.
• Pneumonia can develop, especially in older adults or people with weakened immune systems.
• A bacterial infection can spread to other parts of the body if not treated appropriately.
• Spreading the infection to others may cause more serious illness in vulnerable coworkers, such as those with asthma or cancer.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most people recover from workplace infections within a week or two with rest and home care. Even more serious infections like pneumonia can be treated effectively if you seek medical attention promptly. Using the right prevention strategies helps keep you and your coworkers healthier.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.