The number of Covid infections has increased sharply in recent weeks. So a new Covid wave is coming, and it will be felt in both hospitals and workplaces. Therefore, the Supreme Council for Prevention and Protection at Work is calling on organisations to consult on appropriate prevention measures and motivate employees to get their vaccinations. 

In the period from 30 September to 6 October, the number of new hospital admissions rose by 24%, and the number of occupied intensive care beds also increased by 45%. The Covid pandemic is therefore regaining momentum, and that’s not expected to improve in the coming weeks..

Rising Covid rates go hand in hand with more absenteeism. Infected colleagues temporarily drop out or have to be quarantined, and the pressure on the workplace increases. Protect employees by taking adequate measures: 

• Encourage employees to get vaccinated. If all high-risk patients and at least half those over the age of 50 get their autumn booster, the Covid wave will weaken significantly. But vaccination also remains recommended for those under 50 years of age. After all, the booster shot ensures that you have the necessary antibodies and are less sick (for a shorter time) when you get infected with the virus. 
• Take preventive measures. The Generic Guide (Dutch/French) provided important guidance to prevent a spike in workplace infections in recent years. Don’t hesitate to reuse this guide as inspiration and discuss what ancillary actions are needed to ensure a safe working environment. Indeed, without suitable measures, workplaces are a major virus spreader, as employees spend a lot of time together there.

The flu will be coming back around again, in addition to Covid. However, Covid measures are the ideal basis for preventing the spread of other viruses as well. This is also the precise reason why we haven’t had any flu epidemics in recent years. In addition, flu vaccines help prevent sick leave. Order vaccines in time and get a grip on the virus.