In life, you will face germs wherever you turn. Whether you are at home, work, or shopping for food, you will come in touch with these tiny, sometimes harmful organisms. So what can you do to protect yourself from falling ill with the cold, flu, or something worse? To start, make sure you monitor your health at all times, especially during the fall.

Particular occupations are exposed to more germs than most. This is true for taxi drivers, who are handling money, picking up luggage, and interacting with dozens of people daily. However, a new initiative in Chicago is helping them become aware of the potential illnesses they face and what they can do on the job to protect themselves. A clinic providing free flu shots, targeted at taxi and limo drivers, was offered at O’Hare International Airport. Drivers could stop at the site during their breaks to be more proactive about their health before the flu season comes in full force.           

Providing these services to taxi and limo drivers is a new strategy the Chicago Department of Public Health and the University of Chicago Medicine has enforced. Drivers are exposed to more health risks than most, especially during flu season, which is why the department is placing such a strong focus on this group when controlling germs. Also, the city's Health Department is planning another initiative to focus on large businesses, ranging from hotels to manufacturing industries. The goal is to offer the vaccines and educate workers about the importance of flu shots.

At Bassler & Co., we hope your entire company understands the importance of staying healthy during the fall season. Germs can spread quickly and exponentially, so being mindful of ways to prevent illnesses will benefit your business. Encourage your employees to wash their hands, cover their mouths when coughing, and take sick days when needed. Paying attention to the well being of your workforce will allow for more productivity and less germs spreading in the office.