How COVID-19 Affects the Workplace
Similar to viral infections, COVID-19 has the potential to cause extensive outbreaks. Under conditions associated with widespread person-to- person spread, multiple areas of the United States and other countries may see impacts at the same time.
The pandemic can affect the economy.
In the absence of a vaccine, an outbreak may also be an extended event. As a result, workplaces may experience:
- Absenteeism: Workers could be absent because they are sick; are caregivers for sick family members; are caregivers for children if schools or daycare centers are closed; have at-risk people at home, such as immunocompromised family members; or are afraid to come to work because of fear of possible exposure.
- Change in patterns of commerce: Consumer demand for items related to infection prevention (e.g., respirators) is likely to increase significantly, while consumer interest in other goods may decline. Consumers may also change shopping patterns because of a COVID-19 outbreak. Consumers may try to shop at off-peak hours to reduce contact with other people, show increased interest in internet and home delivery services, or prefer other options, such as drive- through service, to reduce person-to-person contact.
- Interrupted supply/delivery: Shipments of items from geographic areas severely affected by COVID-19 may be delayed or canceled with or without notification.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-4. Which of the following is an example of a change in patterns of commerce due to COVID-19?
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