As the days grow shorter and colder, it’s that time of year when we start thinking about flu vaccinations for the workplace. In 2023, the NHS offers free flu vaccines to those aged 65 and above, essentially retirement age for most. This means that over 12 million people in Britain won’t be eligible for the free flu jab they received last year.
So, what about those in their 50s and early 60s who are likely to have more serious complications from the flu? This is where workplace flu vaccination comes into play. It’s a fantastic way to safeguard your employees against the unpleasant effects of the flu and reduce unnecessary sick days.
How much does the flu vaccine cost?
Individually, a flu vaccination costs around £20, which can be a burden for families, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. However, if your employer offers workplace flu vaccination, you can get this service for free as an employee. For employers, the cost is £14 per employee.
Flu symptoms can be severe and leave you bedridden for several days, impacting not only your personal life but also your work. This typically results in about a week off, and if multiple employees get the flu, it can significantly affect productivity.
Who can receive the flu vaccine?
As of now, free flu vaccination is available for individuals aged 66 and over. Others need to cover the cost themselves. With workplace flu vaccination, you can conveniently book a vaccination slot through your employer, ensuring protection against the flu this winter. This not only provides peace of mind but also minimises disruptions to your work and home life.
Workplace flu jabs decrease the risk of people catching and spreading the flu to others, benefiting both employers and employees.
How does the flu vaccine work?
When you receive a flu vaccine, a tiny amount of the flu virus is injected into your body. This dose is insufficient to make you severely ill but enough to stimulate your body to produce antibodies. These antibodies will protect you against the flu if you come into close contact with someone who has it.
How long does the flu vaccine last?
It’s recommended to have a flu vaccine annually to ensure protection when you need it the most. The flu is most common during the cold winter months when social gatherings increase, leading to a spike in flu cases. Attending a work event while unwell can pose risks of spreading illness, which is detrimental to the workforce.
Where can I get a flu vaccine?
We make it easy by providing workplace flu vaccinations that come to you, eliminating any worries on your end.
What are the side effects of the flu vaccine?
You might feel slightly unwell for a few days as your body builds up antibodies, and your arm might ache for a few hours after the vaccine. Beyond that, you shouldn’t experience any issues. The vaccination process is quick, taking only a few minutes, allowing you to return to work promptly.
How effective is the flu vaccine?
In the UK, the flu vaccine has a long history and has undergone extensive testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. It’s estimated to reduce the risk of severe illness by approximately 50%.
Working when unwell is never ideal, especially when you’d rather be resting in bed. Going to work while sick also puts your colleagues at risk, potentially affecting the entire workforce negatively.
Looking for flu vaccines for your workplace?
We’re here for you during the times you need us most, and we’re on hand with medical professionals to ensure that you and your team have access to the flu vaccination.
For more information, contact us today, and a member of our friendly team will be in contact to help.
