The effect of the flu season in Melbourne, Victoria for Cleaning Companies

6th Aug 2024

The effect of the flu season in Melbourne, Victoria for Cleaning Companies

In Melbourne, Victoria, experiencing "four seasons in a day" is not uncommon. The region is notorious for its variable weather patterns. The rapid fluctuations in temperature and weather conditions can heighten the risk of contracting the flu, especially during colder months when influenza viruses are more widespread. Since 2022, the flu season has shown an earlier onset, which carries significant implications for public health. Factors such as close indoor contact, reduced ventilation, and compromised immune systems exacerbated by weather-related conditions all contribute to the increased prevalence of the flu

FACTS ABOUT FLU  

Influenza is very infectious. It can spread through the air by coughing and sneezing, and by touching objects that have been in contact with saliva or mucus from an infected person. 
Period of Contagiousness The period from when a person is exposed and infected with the influenza virus to when symptoms begin typically spans about two days, but can vary from one to four days. During this time, individuals may unknowingly spread the flu before they show symptoms and while experiencing them. The peak contagious period occurs during the first 3 days of illness. 
Cold and flu germs can last around 24 to 48 hours on hard surfaces. So it’s entirely possible that If someone with a cold or flu sneezes into their hand and then touches a doorknob or bus pole, others who touch those surfaces within the next day or two could potentially catch the illness.

The Impact of Influenza...

In Aged Care Facilities 

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the flu due to weaker immune systems and underlying health conditions. Influenza can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and exacerbate existing health issues, often resulting in hospitalisations and increased mortality rates among older adults. For cleaning companies, ensuring stringent cleaning and disinfection protocols in aged care facilities is crucial. Regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces and promotion of hand hygiene can help mitigate the spread of the virus among residents and staff.


  • Regular Cleaning and Disinfection of frequently touched surfaces such as handrails, doorknobs, and common areas using appropriate cleaning agents, resident rooms paying special attention to high-touch surfaces like bed rails, doorknobs, and light switches.
  • Promotion of Hand Hygiene among residents, staff, and visitors by providing hand sanitising stations and promoting regular handwashing. 
  • Ensure that indoor spaces are adequately ventilated to reduce the concentration of airborne viruses. 
  • Provide cleaning staff with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks, to minimise the risk of transmission while cleaning.
  • Provide training to cleaning staff on proper cleaning and disinfection protocols, as well as the importance of infection prevention measures in facilities serving the elderly population. 

In Offices and Workplace Environments

Close quarters and shared spaces facilitate the spread of the virus, making regular cleaning and disinfection essential. In offices, the flu can significantly impact the health and productivity of staff and employees. Employers face the dual challenge of maintaining a safe work environment while curbing the transmission of illness among their workforce. Ensuring cleanliness and hygiene within office premises becomes paramount to prevent outbreaks and safeguard employee well-being. Key impacts of flu outbreaks in offices include: 

  • Increased Absenteeism: Employees may need to take time off work due to flu symptoms, leading to reduced productivity and disruptions in workflow.
  • Decreased Productivity: Even employees who come to work while sick may experience decreased productivity due to flu symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and body aches.
  • Spread of Illness: The flu can easily spread among office workers through close contact and shared surfaces, leading to outbreaks and widespread illness within the workplace.

In Schools and Childcare Facilities

Schools are another hotspot for flu transmission due to close contact among students and staff. Children, particularly those under ten years old, are vulnerable to flu-related complications. Cleaning operatives should focus on daily cleaning and disinfection of classrooms, play areas, and high-touch surfaces like desks and doorknobs. Educating school staff and students about hygiene practices and providing adequate cleaning supplies can help prevent flu outbreaks and minimise disruptions to education. Flu outbreaks in childcare facilities can pose significant challenges for both caregivers and parents, leading to increased absenteeism and concerns about child health and safety. Cleaning operatives can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of the flu virus by implementing rigorous cleaning and disinfection measures in childcare settings.

  • Bathroom Sanitation: Ensure bathrooms are cleaned and stocked with soap and hand sanitiser throughout the day.
  • Cafeteria and Food Areas: Clean and sanitise cafeteria tables, trays, and food service areas regularly.
  • Toy Cleaning: Regularly clean and sanitise toys using soap and water or disinfectant wipes. Consider rotating toys to ensure all are properly cleaned.
  • Diaper Changing Stations: Clean and disinfect changing tables after each use, and encourage proper hand hygiene for staff and children.
  • High Chairs and Eating Areas: Clean and sanitise high chairs and eating surfaces before and after each meal.

What are the products that are ideal for flu season?

At Melbourne Cleaning Supplies, we offer a range of products ideal for flu season, including alcohol-based hand sanitisers, disinfectants, wipes, and cleaning chemicals. Our products are designed to help cleaning operatives effectively combat the flu virus and maintain a safe and healthy environment for all.

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