With some regions already suffering from the flu outbreak and others poised to be hit, employers are being reminded that
sick staff are not good for business.
Wise Use of Antibiotics Campaign spokesperson Dr Eileen Sables says a caring attitude towards sick staff pays off in the
long run for both employers and employees.
The national campaign is being spearheaded by 25 doctor groups (IPAs), with funding and support from the Government
pharmaceutical funding agency PHARMAC and support from the Royal NZ College of GPs.
It aims to dispel the myth that antibiotics can treat a virus like the flu. Instead people should be using remedies such
as plenty of rest, fluids, paracetamol, steam inhalations, decongestants, and throat lozenges and gargles.
Dr Eileen Sables, of Pakuranga, says the message is getting through to those people who traditionally were reluctant to
take time off when they had the flu. One way for this momentum to continue is for employers to encourage staff suffering
from winter ailments stay at home and rest.
“I am writing out fewer prescriptions for antibiotics and people are taking note which is excellent news. However there
are still too many cases of people battling on at work and not giving themselves time to fully recover from the effects
of colds and flu. Of course, it isn’t just employees who need to give themselves time to recover, the same is true for
employers.”
Dr Eileen Sables says this “battle-on” attitude does more harm than good. Not only are other staff members being put at
risk, but a sick employee won’t be as productive. They may also end up getting other illnesses and need to take even
more time off down the track.
“It is better to have one day resting in bed if you feel ill than to get really sick because you haven’t listened to
what your body is saying.
“There’s no denying that having staff on sick leave can add pressure, but the consequences of them not getting the rest
they need could be worse. Being short a staff member for one or two days is the best option.”
She says the best way to find out if someone needs antibiotics or not is to see a doctor who will distinguish between
bacterial or viral infections.
“If you need an antibiotic you will get one. However if you have a cold or the flu the best treatment for you is rest
and simple medicines such as paracetamol.”
Dr Eileen Sables says that a lot of progress has already been made with reports of a decrease in antibiotic prescribing,
while independent research has also revealed that the public is taking on the message.
“We are moving in the right direction in terms of the use of antibiotics but we mustn’t be complacent. The momentum
needs to continue so more and more people recognise that often antibiotics are not the answer.”
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