Protect Yourself And Your Employees From This Year's Flu Season

4 tips to follow

Flu season is officially here and protection against germs on shared objects such as telephones, keyboards, and community office spaces is more important than ever. According to the CDC, last year’s flu season was one of the most severe in recent U.S. history, with record-breaking hospitalization rates across the country.
 

A recent survey by Walgreens revealed U.S. employees are attending work even when they are contagious with the flu. Nearly 40 percent of respondents reported going to work when sick with the flu. Outside of the workplace, one in 10 reported attending a party or social gathering.
 
To protect your workplace this flu season, follow these tips to increase prevention and keep your employees healthy.
 

The flu virus spreads from physical contact and may live on surfaces you interact with every day. Be cognizant of touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching surfaces at work or being in contact with someone exhibiting flu-like symptoms. Whenever possible, cough toward your arm instead of directly on your hands to minimize your chances of spreading the flu virus. Remember to wash your hands frequently, use disinfectant wipes, and consider an antibacterial hand sanitizer for when you’re on-the-go.  
 

The flu vaccine is still the best defense you have against the virus. Don’t wait to visit your local pharmacy or doctor’s office to receive the flu vaccine. If you don’t know where to go, your HR representative should be able to provide you with information on flu vaccine coverage with your company’s insurance. You can receive the flu shot at a local Walgreens without an appointment, which is covered by most insurance plans with a $0 copay for customers. Individuals paying cash should check with their doctor or pharmacist for specific cost information.
 

The CDC recommends all individuals six months and older get an annual flu shot. This includes children, adults, older individuals, and pregnant women. Individuals should consult their pharmacist or doctor if they have any concerns and to determine the appropriate vaccination for them, which may include a high-dose vaccine recommended for those over age 65 or a quadrivalent vaccine, which protects against four strains of influenza, among other options. Before heading out to get your flu shot, remember state, age, and health restrictions may apply when getting an immunization at a local pharmacy. 
 

The flu shot protects both individuals who get it as well as those with whom they come into contact. Flu vaccinations may help protect those around you whose immune systems are compromised, as well as infants who are too young to be immunized. Flu immunizations can take up to two weeks to become effective, so it is recommended that you get your flu immunization as early as possible. With holiday travel and gatherings around the corner, getting vaccinated should be a priority on everyone’s to-do-list. 
 
Last year, 82 percent of Americans missed out on social gatherings due to the flu. Followed by 31 percent who said the flu made them miss time with family. Don’t let the flu prevent you from spending time with family and having fun with friends this season. Protect yourself and others by getting your flu vaccination today.
 

Dorothy Loy is the Director of Immunizations for Walgreens. She is responsible for the immunization service innovation, where she manages stakeholders to ensure strategic alignment and application. Since joining Walgreens in 2007, Loy has served in various roles including Pharmacist Intern, Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technology Product Owner, Pharmacy Process Optimization Manager, Product Manager for Pharmacy Initiatives and now Director of Immunizations.   Connect Dorothy Loy