Mexico City — Covid-19 cases have surged once again, prompting concerns among health officials and businesses alike. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health, the week of July 15-21 saw a 36 percent increase in positive Covid-19 cases, a trend confirmed by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). In response, experts are urging companies to reassess their current health protocols to mitigate the potential risks associated with this resurgence.
UNAM’s Recommendations and Observations
UNAM’s University Program on Epidemiological and Emerging Risks reported a significant uptick in positive cases, advising the public to resume wearing face masks as a precautionary measure. Despite the rise in cases, hospital occupancy and mortality rates remain low, which has provided some reassurance. However, UNAM emphasized that the increasing number of cases puts additional strain on health services, exacerbates absenteeism in workplaces, and leads to the misuse of antibiotics and other medications.
In their statement, UNAM highlighted that the continued circulation of the virus raises the risk of new viral variants emerging. “People who contract Covid-19 are at higher risk of exacerbating other pre-existing health conditions or suffering from long-term sequelae that could impact their overall health,” the institution warned. Consequently, UNAM urged the public and private sectors to take proactive measures to protect the most vulnerable populations from the virus.
Corporate Response: The Need for a Health Risk Diagnosis
As the new school year approaches, companies operating in person or under hybrid models must reconsider their preventive strategies. Sergio Aguilar, Executive Director of Unmetra and an expert in occupational health, stressed the importance of conducting a health risk diagnosis within organizations. “The Ministry of Health will provide guidance on when stricter measures should be implemented, but companies should proactively assess potential health risks and establish protocols to prevent infections, such as those caused by Covid-19,” Aguilar stated.
Aguilar underscored that the pandemic has taught businesses the importance of developing a comprehensive management system for health risks. Such a system should be based on a thorough diagnosis, identifying high-risk areas within the company, such as bathrooms and changing rooms, where preventive measures should be prioritized to minimize the risk of contagion.
Implementing a Comprehensive Health Management System
To effectively manage the ongoing risk posed by Covid-19, companies are advised to take the following steps:
- Conduct a Health Risk Diagnosis: Assess potential points of contagion within the workplace.
- Establish Preventive Measures and Programs: Implement health filters and other safety protocols based on the diagnosis.
- Health Surveillance: Monitor possible infections and track confirmed cases to contain the spread of the virus.
Aguilar emphasized that these measures should not be reactionary but part of a permanent health management system within organizations.
Covid-19: A Permanent Concern for Businesses
Covid-19 is likely to remain a permanent fixture in the global health landscape, much like influenza and other respiratory diseases. Heriberto Pérez González Arango, President of the National Federation of Occupational Health (Fenestac), noted that many companies continue to maintain preventive measures established during the height of the pandemic. “Some businesses have not been as diligent in implementing Covid-19 prevention measures, such as using antibacterial gel, promoting frequent hand washing, and conducting regular testing,” he explained.
Pérez González Arango also mentioned that when workers test positive for Covid-19, they are typically granted five days of medical leave by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). They are only allowed to return to work once they are confirmed to be fully recovered. He stressed the importance of continuing these preventive practices to minimize the impact of the current surge in cases.
Ongoing Training and Communication are Key
The president of Fenestac further emphasized the need for ongoing training and clear communication with employees about the importance of reporting respiratory symptoms. “We must continue to educate our staff on the significance of preventive measures and ensure that they understand the importance of notifying their employers if they or someone in their household is unwell,” Pérez González Arango advised.
