It’s almost that time of year again – the familiar sounds of sneezing and coughing will soon fill most offices. It’s essential for employers to set their sights on safeguarding their valuable workforce. The common cold may be a minor inconvenience, but the flu, on the other hand, can trigger a full-blown office epidemic, leading to lost productivity and a spike in sick days. To fortify your workplace against the flu, there’s no better defense than adding the flu vaccine to your occupational health programs.
Boost Your Flu IQ
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The virus spreads through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can also survive on surfaces and spread through contact with contaminated objects.
Each year, it is estimated that up to 1 in 5 individuals fall prey to the flu. While flu symptoms may be manageable for some, it can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including those with chronic conditions. Fortunately, recent studies confirm that flu vaccinations can reduce an individual’s susceptibility to the flu by up to 60 percent
Unlike the gradual onset of a common cold, the flu strikes suddenly, posing a significant risk to the workforce. Flu symptoms range from mild to severe and can even lead to serious complications, including hospitalization or worse. One of the most troubling aspects of the flu is that individuals can pass it on to others before they even realize they are infected. In Fact according to the CDC, healthy adults can infect others beginning one day before symptoms appear, and up to 5-7 days after showing signs of flu. This makes it crucial to take proactive measures to prevent its spread.
Employers play a critical role in promoting flu vaccination among their workforce. Encouraging and facilitating vaccination not only protects individual employees but also contributes to a healthier workplace environment, reducing the risk of flu-related complications and productivity losses.
Strategic Moves: Adding the Flu Vaccine to Your Services
The financial ramifications of influenza on organizational productivity cannot be understated. The flu casts its shadow in the form of absenteeism and presenteeism – both detrimentally impacting overall output. In 2018, the estimated average annual total economic burden of influenza to the healthcare system and society was $11.2 billion. Moreover, the incalculable toll of lost productivity due to flu-induced absences exacerbates the economic burden.
However, with the strategic implementation of flu vaccines, your organization can eclipse these losses. The modest investment in flu shots pales in comparison to the potential cost savings and increased productivity they promote. By fostering a flu-resilient workforce, you mitigate the risk of financial strain while ensuring a harmonious and productive working environment.
Flu Vaccines Foster Loyal Teams
It is prudent to consider adding the flu vaccine to your occupational health programs for your teams. Especially, when it comes to hiring and employee retention. By providing flu vaccinations, your organization demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of your valued workforce. This tangible dedication cultivates a culture of health-consciousness and mutual care, fostering loyalty and engagement among employees. A workplace resonating with wellness is one that attracts and retains top talent, propelling your enterprise to stellar achievements.
In a competitive job market, employees gravitate toward organizations that prioritize their well-being. A comprehensive workplace health program, which includes flu vaccination initiatives and other wellness programs, conveys a powerful message – “Your health matters to us!” This gesture elevates employee retention rates and fosters a sense of fulfillment among team members.
Creating a Flu-Free Zone
Flu vaccines are a crucial part of workplace wellness, but there’s more to maintaining a healthy workforce than just that! Encourage your team to practice good hygiene, like covering their mouths and noses when sneezing or coughing. Regular handwashing, especially after coughs and sneezes, before meals, and after using the restroom, is a must. And for those times when hand washing isn’t feasible, having hand sanitizer available can be a real game-changer.
Additionally, communication is key in keeping everyone on the same page about flu prevention. Regular reminders via email, posters, or team meetings will keep the importance of flu vaccines top of mind. If you are planning to provide vaccines at no cost to your team, include that information in your communication efforts. Providing the vaccine may make it more appealing to employees. The CDC found that amongst healthcare workers, when employers require the vaccine, 85 percent of workers get one. Just 43 percent get vaccinated if there is no policy. By removing any barriers and making your intentions clear, you increase the chances of employees taking advantage of the opportunity and protecting themselves and others from the flu.
Seamless Impact: Integrating Flu Prevention
When it comes to promoting flu vaccines, integration is the name of the game. By adding flu shots into your organization’s well-being and occupational health programs and offering them alongside regular health screenings, you can amplify participation and propel your company culture to new heights. Embracing prevention through flu shots and screenings also sends a powerful message – your organization genuinely cares about the health and well-being of its employees. Offering the flu shot at work is an easy way to reap benefits for both organizations and their employees, contributing to a healthier workforce and bottom line It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
Ready to fortify your workplace against the flu and boost your team’s wellness? Partner with NMS Health and take the proactive step of adding the flu vaccine to your occupational health programs. Our services make safeguarding your workforce simple and effective. Don’t let the flu disrupt your productivity – let’s work together to create a healthier and thriving workplace. Get started today to begin scheduling flu vaccines for your employees!
