The CDC reports high levels of flu-like illness in some 37 states. Anecdotally, our Phoenix metro area seems to have some really nasty stuff going around.
So I wasn't surprised at a call I received yesterday from a long term client, the owner of a multi office architecture practice. His outlying office (a small one where we're providing janitorial service only one night per week) has major respiratory problems among the staff. He needed us to temporarily increase service to nightly, with a major emphasis on sanitizing touch-points.
Wasn't a problem. We started same night; prior to, we gave our crew a quick refresher on sanitation procedures. We use a hydrogen peroxide solution that is both a good cleaner and a very good sanitizer, with no residue or environmental issues, applied with a microfiber cloth (ditto). We stressed (as we always do, but once again) door jambs and knobs, phone hand sets, counters, light switches, and - what many commercial cleaning firms neglect - lunchroom fridge, microwave and coffee pot handles.
My client also asked for my thoughts on precautions his staff can take. Since most colds, at least, are picked up by touching (touching both people and touch points), not by the fellow at the next desk coughing in your direction (check Amazon for "The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds and Flu"), I suggested aggressive use of germicidal wipes (all day long), training folks to put the toilet seat down before flushing (the flush generates a plume of critter laden droplets), and a long-acting germicidal barrier hand lotion. We use one by R & R Lotions that is supposed to kill most pathogens for up to four hours after applying. I always slather it on before visiting clients, before Chamber of Commerce mixers (lots of hand shaking) and before church (again, lots of hand shaking - it's a very friendly church). And particularly before visiting, to quote a potential facility or to check on our current client, any health care or child care facilities.
Haven't had a cold since I began using the stuff.
2015-2016 Influenza Season Week 9 ending March 5, 2016
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