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Flu Vaccine and International Travel
It’s easy to imagine how influenza (flu) can spread in crowded and busy places like airports, trains, and planes. Droplets with flu virus from coughing and sneezing can also land on “high touch” surfaces such as handrails and door nobs. Touching your face after pushing an elevator button can be enough to ruin the best planned trip.
Who Needs the Influenza Vaccine?
Everyone 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine yearly. Keep in mind that for travelers, winter months in the Southern Hemisphere are opposite of the Northern Hemisphere. In other words, a summer trip that departs from the US to the Southern Hemisphere is winter for them. And as we know, flu is more likely to circulate in winter months. Because the flu virus can change from year-to-year, the vaccine is given annually to provide the best “match.”
Flu Vaccinations at Work
Consider onsite influenza vaccines to bolter your workplace wellness program. Offering flu vaccinations at your business can reduce unplanned employees absence and sick time. Additionally, the annual flu vaccinations promotes a healthy workforce and community by protecting those most vulnerable from serious disease and hospitalization.
Setting up a corporate flu vaccine clinic does not need to be overly complicated, costly, or timely. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a helpful guide to get started.
If you’re looking for workplace flu vaccines give Destination Health a call. Our nurses are specially trained in immunizations and follow CDC best practices for onsite vaccination events.
Other Vaccines to Promote a Healthy Workforce
Many workplaces have occupational risks for vaccine-preventable diseases like Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Read more about the vaccines and CDC recommendations for healthcare workers.