Flu Season is Upon Us! Let's Stay Clean and Protected
December 29, 2022
Flu viruses circulate year-round, but flu activity tends to be higher during fall and winter during “flu season.” The exact timing and duration of flu seasons vary, but flu activity often begins to increase in October. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that there have been 13-27 million flu illnesses resulting in 120,000-260,000 hospitalizations1 this year, between Oct. 1 and Dec. 3. Stepan Company has U.S. EPA-registered disinfectants that can protect against harmful bacteria and viruses this flu season.
According to CDC flu activity generally peaks between December to February, but since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic it has become less predictable. And there has been a recent concern with the triple threat of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza and COVID-19 infections as we head into the winter months. There are four different types of Influenza viruses with Type A and B causing seasonal flu outbreaks, with Influenza A tending to be most prevalent. Each “flu season” has different Influenza A virus subtypes, including H1N1 and H3N2, that become the predominant causative agent of flu cases2.
Coughing and sneezing are the main culprits for the transmission of these very contagious flu viruses. Also important to note, flu viruses can live on objects and surfaces. It’s essential that we cover our noses and mouth, wash our hands frequently and disinfect surfaces that may harbor flu viruses to avoid spreading to our coworkers, family and friends. Stepan has you covered on the disinfection aspect of a facility's robust hygiene plan and daily household routine.
Stepan’s U.S. EPA-registered disinfectants that have approved claims against Influenza A viruses that may cause the flu are available as dilutable concentrates, ready-to-use solutions and wipes.
The following are a selection of products that have claims for the flu virus on the EPA master label:
If you would like to learn more or have any questions, please call 1-800-745-7837 or contact the Stepan Company North America Technical Service Department.
Stepan also has U.S. EPA-registered disinfectants that have approved claims against viruses that may cause other respiratory diseases that are also common during this season. Find the solution that meets your needs.
1https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/preliminary-in-season-estimates.htm (Data from October 1, 2022 through December 3, 2022. Accessed 12/12/2022)
2https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm