24/07/2009 - 'Combat swine flu with home workers'
Computer specialists have advised employers to make it possible for their staff to work from home in an attempt to curb the spread of swine flu.
The PC Support Group said businesses should take advantage of the mobile and remote technology available amid fears that absence rates could reach 50% at a £50 billion cost to the economy.
Managing director of the group, Phil Bird, has warned that small companies could really suffer and the absence rates for most firms is likely to be around 12%.
"While 12% may not seem an extremely worrying percentage, you have to take into account that smaller companies only have a limited number of staff. They are therefore likely to lose much higher percentages, which in some cases could be up to 50%," he said.
The first wave of the swine flu pandemic is expected to peak in late August or early September when staff numbers will already be hit by holiday requests.
Mr Bird added: "Companies need to start preparing for soaring absentee rates before the peak of the virus hits the UK's business community."
"Swine flu can vary in seriousness and, in a number of cases, particularly towards the end of the illness, sufferers will be able to work although, due to being contagious, may still not be able to return to the workplace, extending their absence.
"For many smaller companies this loss could even lead to them going out of business if they don't plan ahead."
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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