Prepare Your Facility for the Winter Cold and Flu

As temperatures drop, respiratory illnesses such as the common cold and influenza (flu) become more prevalent. Recent data highlights just how significant their impact can be during the winter months. Keeping your facility clean and safe is not only about appearance — it directly affects health, productivity, and peace of mind for your staff and visitors.

At AP Smart Cleaning, we help businesses maintain healthier, safer, and more productive environments during this critical time of year.

Why Illness Spreads More Easily in Winter

Respiratory viruses thrive in colder conditions due to several factors:

• People spend more time indoors and in close proximity

• Low humidity allows viruses to remain airborne longer

• Immune defenses may be weaker during winter months

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seasonal flu activity typically peaks between December and February, causing millions of illnesses across the United States each year.

Cold, Flu, and Absenteeism by the Numbers

While the flu receives significant attention, the common cold continues to affect millions:

• In the U.S., adults catch an average of 2–3 colds per year, with even higher rates among children.

• Colds and other respiratory infections are among the leading causes of missed work and school, directly impacting productivity.

During peak winter illness periods:

• Businesses, schools, and offices experience higher absenteeism.

• Emergency department visits for flu-like illnesses rise well above normal levels, prompting more people to stay home from work.

• As flu positivity rates and hospital visits increase, employees are more likely to call in sick, especially when symptoms are severe.

Even mild illnesses can spread quickly in shared environments, making prevention essential.

How Professional Cleaning Helps Reduce Sick Days:

Effective cleaning and disinfection do more than improve appearances — they reduce the presence of infectious germs on surfaces and in high-traffic areas, which is especially important during cold and flu season.

A professional cleaning strategy helps:

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, counters, and workstations

• Reduce the risk of virus transmission

• Create a cleaner, healthier environment

• Support productivity by helping prevent unnecessary call-ins

At AP Smart Cleaning, we use industry-trusted products and proven disinfection protocols designed specifically for commercial environments during high-risk seasons.

Tips to Support a Healthier Facility This Winter

• Encourage these best practices within your workplace:

• Promote frequent hand washing

• Provide hand sanitizer stations

• Encourage annual flu vaccinations

• Ask individuals who feel sick to stay home

• Maintain regular professional cleaning schedules

Be Proactive This Winter

Winter illnesses don’t just cause discomfort — they affect attendance, productivity, and overall workplace health. A proactive approach to cleaning and disinfection can significantly reduce the spread of illness and help minimize employee call-ins.

AP Smart Cleaning is here to support your facility with customized cleaning plans that keep your space healthy, safe, and ready for business throughout the winter season.

👉 Contact us today to prepare your facility for the cold and flu season.