A mini review on the impact of workplace response on employee health and well-being during viral disease outbreaks in three multinational organizations: a personnel psychology viewpoint

Abstract

Background & Aims: This review presents the connection between personnel psychology and infectious viral diseases, which has important implications for public health and workforce management. Infectious viral diseases can have a significant impact on the workforce, causing absenteeism, decreased productivity, increased healthcare costs, and psychological distress. Therefore, understanding this link is crucial for developing strategies to prevent and manage outbreaks, promote employee well-being, and maintain productivity. Materials & Methods: The study adopted a qualitative analysis method using search queries carefully crafted to target specific aspects of the strategies employed by organizations such as Kaiser Permanente, Marriott International, and Google during the Ebola outbreak, COVID-19 pandemic, and swine flu, respectively. Results: The study deliberates on the nature of infectious viral diseases, their impacts on individuals and organizations, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. It also explores the relationship between personnel psychology and infectious viral diseases, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and transmission dynamics, as well as social and behavioural factors. Conclusion: The article concludes by suggesting that organizations should take measures to prevent the spread of infectious viral diseases, support affected employees, and implement policies for sick leave and remote work, infection prevention training, and mental health support.

Keywords

• employee well-being
• infectious viral diseases
• outbreak prevention
• personnel psychology
• workforce management