Portrait of a sick young lying on her desk in workplace

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control or Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have been between 13.2 million and 15.2 million flu illnesses this season. According to Becker's Clinical Leadership & Infection Control, the CDC's estimates also say there have been 6.2 million to 7.2 million flu medical visits and 155,000 to 186,000 flu hospitalizations so far.

If these numbers seem high, it's because they are. The percentage of outpatient visits for influenza-like illnesses increased to 4.3 percent for the week ending Feb. 2, above the national baseline of 2.2 percent. In fact, all 10 regions reported influenza-like illness at or above their region-specific baseline level.

If they haven't already, now is a good time for jan/san distributors to raise awareness and help customers understand all the products and services available to combat cold and influenza germs.

While most customers are mindful of the upcoming flu season and keep up on infection control, they still need to be reminded of the cleaning products and systems available to them. It’s helpful to get cleaning managers/customers thinking about how they can fit extra products into their budgets in order to help fight the flu.

Hand sanitizers, soaps, disinfectants and other infection control products will all be in higher demand flu season. Distributors will need to ensure these products remain in stock.