Dealing with Flu, including Co-Vid 19 

Let's face it (no mask pun intended), dealing with the ongoing effects of any flu virus, including covid is certainly a challenge for all of us.  Food Service workers are no exception but if you're a certified manager, you should already know how to keep folks safe from pathogens that can cause food borne illness.  Covid-19 is a virus, so all of the safety protocols you're following for those viruses still hold true.  

So Just What is a Virus?

Viruses are microscopic parasites, generally much smaller than bacteria. They lack the capacity to thrive and reproduce outside of a host body.  In other words, they need YOU or other living being to survive!.  They get into your system through food, beverage, or other particles that get into your mouth or other mucous membranes such as your eyes.  Depending on your state of health, the virus can have a variety of effects. This is why you hear that those whose immune systems are compromised are at a higher risk for demonstrating symptoms from the illness which  may  include some or all of the following:
  • Cough
  • Fever or chills
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Sore throat
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • New fatigue
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Congestion or runny nose

How We Spread Any Virus

As of now, researchers know that the new coronavirus is spread through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The droplets generally do not travel more than a few feet, and they fall to the ground (or onto surfaces) in a few seconds — this is why physical distancing is effective in preventing the spread

The Basic Fighting Tools

  • Eat a variety of healthy foods and include 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.  Be sure to include good sources of Vitamin C, which can give your immune system a boost
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get 6-8 hours of restful sleep daily
  • Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily

Personal Hygiene Tips

  • Practice good personal hygiene
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Wash hands  PROPERLY using a warm water, an effective soap and vigorously scrub hands up to mid-forearms for 20 seconds, dry hands with a single use towel and turn off the faucet with that towel.
  • Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes
  • Wear a  clean, dry mask when unable to social distance