Managing the current UK flu increase and supporting business continuity 

Dr Sam Valanejad, Chief Medical Officer – Commercial

Sam is Chief Medical Officer – Commercial at Medigold Health and a Consultant Specialist in Occupational Medicine. He leads the development of innovative, evidence-based clinical services, including programmes that help employers protect their workforce from seasonal health risks such as flu.

1. Sickness management and attendance 

Employees experiencing flu-like symptoms (such as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches or marked fatigue) should be encouraged to remain at home until they are clinically well enough to return to work. 

Clear and consistent messaging from managers is important to discourage presenteeism, which increases the risk of transmission and wider absence. 

2. Hand and respiratory hygiene 

Good hygiene remains a cornerstone of infection prevention: 

• Encourage regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water 

• Provide tissues and waste bins in shared areas 

• Reinforce covering coughs and sneezes and appropriate disposal of tissues (“Catch it, Bin it, Kill it”) 

3. Workplace environment and ventilation 

Where reasonably practicable: 

• Increase the flow of fresh air in indoor spaces 

• Use natural or mechanical ventilation effectively 

• Avoid overcrowding in enclosed areas where possible 

Improved ventilation has been shown to reduce the spread of respiratory infections in shared environments. 

4. Face coverings  

UKHSA guidance indicates that individuals with respiratory symptoms may consider wearing a well-fitting face covering when in shared or public indoor spaces, particularly where close contact is unavoidable. This is a supportive measure rather than a formal requirement. 

5. Flexible and remote working 

Where roles allow, employers may wish to facilitate remote or hybrid working arrangements to reduce workplace density during periods of high community transmission and to support business continuity. 

Flu vaccination – awareness and employer support 

Seasonal flu vaccination remains the most effective measure for reducing the risk of severe illness, complications and hospitalisation. The NHS continues to offer free flu vaccination to eligible groups, including: 

• Adults aged 65 and over 

• Individuals with certain long-term health conditions 

• Pregnant individuals 

• Some frontline and at-risk workers 

Employers are encouraged to raise awareness of NHS eligibility and support employees in accessing vaccination promptly.