6 Ways to Avoid the Spread of Infection in Waiting Rooms: Keeping Your Office Clean of Germs and Viruses

EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published in 2017 before the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak COVID-19. For COVID-19 Business Guidance see information from the CDC: Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) 

During the past month I have encountered many lost work days in my Staff due to the flu and illness. In addition, my kids have spoken of many of their friends being sick.

My question to you: have you seen your doctor recently? Many physician waiting rooms, urgent care centers, or clinics are not the safest places during the cold and flu season. Flu outbreaks typically occur as early as October and can last as late as early May. If you visit one of these places in the near future, look for these simple principles and practices at your doctor.

1. Is hand sanitizer readily available for patients and others?
2. Are there boxes of facial tissues around the waiting room and office areas?
3. Are antiviral face masks available if requested?
4. Is there Signage posted at entrance doors to follow protocol to prevent the spread of colds and flu? Signage such as… “Please cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.”
5. Throughout the day, is the staff using pre-saturated disinfectant wipes to rid door handles, furniture, and high-touch areas of bacteria?
6. Everyone should practice frequent hand hygiene washings throughout the day.

We realize it may be impossible to prevent colds and influenza, but we should follow these simple suggestions for controlling their spread.