COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus (the family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to SARS) which originated in the Wuhan area of China in late 2019.
The majority of cases are still within China although cases are being detected around the world. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
Many individuals experience mild to moderate symptoms although the elderly and immunocompromised are more at risk of experiencing severe symptoms and complications as a result of the illness.
Given the fast spread of the virus the Government have issued official guidelines and policies aiming to contain the spread. Coronavirus (COVID-19) has now been officially classified as a notable disease which allows businesses to make applicable insurance claims for business disruption arising from its spread.
BUSINESS ADVICE
Hygiene is key:
- Encourage regular handwashing for 20 seconds and coughing and sneezing into tissues which are then thrown away
- Consider providing hand sanitiser and tissues in key locations
- Encourage employees who are unwell, returning from affected areas, or have come into close contact in the last two weeks with an individual who has (or is suspected of having) contracted the virus not to come into the workplace
Communicate:
- Keep employees updated on policies and actions taken
- Ensure up-to-date emergency contact info is kept for all employees
- Ensure all managers understand the symptoms of COVID-19 so they can spot them in good time
- Ensure all managers understand policies and processes should a case be identified
Define your policies:
- If you’re due to travel to an affected area consider whether it is essential – avoid it wherever possible, instead utilise online meeting platforms if this is the reason for your visit
- Clarify whether employees who self-isolate will qualify for sick pay – the government has stated that if someone has been advised by NHS 111 or a doctor to self-isolate they should receive any statutory sick pay due to them
- Clarify your working from home policy, this could be used to encourage employees returning from affected areas to self-isolate with full pay
- Review and communicate your business continuity plan to minimise disruption should the situation arise
- Review your insurance policies so you can understand what would or wouldn’t be covered in the event of disruption
Keep an eye on the wider impact:
- Review your current suppliers to identify any that may be affected and contact them to understand what the implications to your business could be
- Check any upcoming trade shows booked are going ahead and monitor regularly for any changes
- Consider putting contingency plans in place to cover you in case there are any disruptions to either suppliers or customers
Resources are available to help you plan ahead.
Norfolk Chambers Policy Norfolk Chambers of Commerce will be taking a common-sense approach to the COVID-19 outbreak and adhering to all Government advice.
As at Tuesday 17 March, we have taken the decision to postpone all events/training courses until the end of April 2020 based on the latest government live update by the Prime Minister. We will reconsider our position on events at the end of this period. In the meantime, if you are booked onto an event during this period, we will be in touch to advise you about your booking.
In line with official guidance we do ask that all individuals who are experiencing COVID-19 like symptoms, have returned from an affected area, or have been in close contact in the last two weeks with an individual who has (or is suspected of having) contracted the virus to not attend meetings or events with us.
