Why should Businesses consider the Influenza Vaccine?
As an employee you should get the influenza vaccine for two reasons: to protect yourself and protect your co-workers and family.

Protect Yourself
The flu thrives in the typical office environment, and will infect almost one in four people this winter. Each victim will be absent for 3-5 days, and individual productivity can be adversely affected for up to two weeks following an infection.

Protect your community
All employees are encouraged to get the influenza vaccine so they do not pass the virus to those at high risk for influenza related complications, such as persons more than 50 years of age and those of any age with chronic medical conditions. This is particularly important for employees involved in the care of elderly parents or relatives.

What can I take for flu?
If flu or flu-like symptoms occur, painkillers such as Paracetamol may help relieve headache or muscle pains.
Antibiotics are only required if a person develops flu related complications such as pneumonia.

How often do I need to be vaccinated?
If you fall within the above risk categories (healthcare worker) then vaccination is required annually.

How long will the jab protect me?
The flu shot will protect you for a year.

Why do I need to be vaccinated annually?
The flu virus is subject to minor changes in its structure, and this gives rise to slightly different variants circulating each season. In order to produce the most effective vaccine, information is gathered on the current circulating strains and recommendations are made on the best combinations to produce the vaccine.