BioIQ’s comprehensive approach makes onsite flu shots easy
The first signs of fall have arrived – shorter days, cooler temperatures and the return of a certain pumpkin-flavored Starbucks drink. With these autumnal delights comes a less welcome change – it’s flu season throughout the country. Although it may seem premature to think about flu, now is the time to plan ahead to keep your employees healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the world’s foremost experts on influenza, up to 20 percent of U.S. employees contract the flu annually. This leads to $6.2 billion in lost productivity, 75 million days in work absences, and 22 million visits to healthcare providers.
Flu viruses are constantly changing, so it’s not unusual for new strains to appear each year. This makes it difficult to predict the timing, severity and length of the season from one year to another. Seasonal flu activity can begin as early as October and continues to occur as late as May. In the U.S., flu activity most commonly peaks between December and March, which makes early fall the ideal time to raise awareness and implement a flu vaccination program.
“An annual flu shot is the first line of defense in protecting employees against flu viruses,” says Kristen Heitman Nichols, and epidemiologist for the CDC. “Except in certain situations, everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season. By taking this preventive measure, you’re also helping to protect the people around you, who may be more vulnerable to serious illness.”
So, it’s easy to see why employers encourage their workforce to roll up their sleeves each year and take precautions against the flu. Plus, the ROI is compelling. According to the CDC, flu vaccination programs generate savings of $2.58 per every $1 spent on vaccinations and a possible savings of up to $4,000 for every averted illness. A study from researchers at the University of Pittsburgh demonstrated a cost savings of $63 to $95 per vaccinated employee can be realized if flu shot programs are conducted before December.
BioIQ offers the most effective way to provide flu vaccinations to your population and minimize the impact of this year’s flu season. The BioIQ Platform enables HR teams and program administrators to coordinate all aspects of an onsite flu program:
- Improve employee awareness and increase vaccination rates with a comprehensive communication toolset
- Provide a seamless onsite user experience with digital results processing and in-flight event tracking
- Easily integrate onsite flu vaccinations into biometric screenings and other wellness initiatives
- Experience minimal budget impact via insurance claims billing
To learn how BioIQ can help your organization take the pain out of a flu shot program, call (888) 818-1594.