UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued updated advice to help the public minimise the spread of flu, Covid-19 and other respiratory infections this winter, as BPCA encourages the pest management sector to play its part in keeping staff and customers safe.
UKHSA confirmed that the flu season began earlier than usual, with a drifted influenza A(H3N2) strain contributing to higher levels of illness. Early surveillance shows this year’s flu vaccines are performing well and offering strong protection against hospitalisation in both adults and children.
Guidance on what to do if you develop symptoms of Covid-19, flu or other respiratory infections remains unchanged. Instead, UKHSA is reminding people to return to the simple behaviours that help limit transmission during the colder months, when viruses spread more easily indoors.
BPCA is urging pest professionals to refresh their winter health protocols and support colleagues by modelling good hygiene and safety practices on site and in the workplace.
Recommended actions include:
- Getting vaccinated if eligible;
- Staying at home when unwell;
- Improving ventilation during indoor meet-ups;
- Practising good hygiene, including regular handwashing and cleaning frequently touched surfaces; and
- Wearing a mask if you need to go out while symptomatic.
UKHSA highlighted that although these steps became second nature during the height of the pandemic, they remain just as important every flu season.
