Booklet helps employers keep workplace ‘flu free

Beat the flu
Influenza. You can’t afford it.

26 March 2007

New booklet helps employers keep workplace ‘flu free

Bay of Plenty businesses are being encouraged to offer free influenza vaccination for staff this coming season. The Bay of Plenty District Health Board has produced an “Easy guide to influenza vaccination in the workplace” booklet, which has been sent to more than 1400 businesses in the Western and Eastern Bay of Plenty.

“One of the most common causes of sick leave is illness due to influenza. By vaccinating staff employers can save money and show staff they care,” says Medical Officer of Health Dr Phil Shoemack. “This resource aims to show employers how easy and economical it is to provide influenza vaccination at work.”

The booklet outlines why vaccinating staff is a smart business decision, common myths about influenza and how to organise staff vaccination in four easy steps. A number of businesses already vaccinate staff against influenza, so all businesses have been sent tips on how to encourage staff to take up the offer.

“The vaccine will be available before the end of March, so there’s no time like the present for businesses to get their hands on the booklet or contact a GP or Occupational Health Nurse and organise influenza vaccination for their staff,” says Dr Shoemack.

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board has provided free vaccination for all staff for more than a decade and dozens of other businesses already offer influenza vaccination for their employees.

People aged 65 and over and anyone with a chronic medical condition can get vaccinated for free from their GP until June 30.

Dr Phil Shoemack says even when you are immunised you should practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.

“Always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and then wash your hands, and always use disposable tissues and stay at home when sick,” he says.

The FREE “Easy guide to influenza vaccination in the workplace” and posters/brochures are available by contacting beattheflu@bopdhb.govt.nz, 07 5773773 or www.bopdhb.govt.nz.

ENDS

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