You aren’t done with immunizations when you turn 18. There are many sicknesses and diseases that you are more susceptible to the older you get or just by being in a new environment, like a job in a new state.
Immunizations Employees Should Have
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend:
- Seasonal influenza for those who choose to do so.
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (aka whooping cough) for all adults who haven’t received the Tdap vaccine.
- Shingles for adults 60 years and older.
- Pneumococcal disease for adults 65+ years and adults with specific health conditions.
- Hepatitis B for adults who have diabetes or are at risk for hepatitis B.
- Travel immunizations for those traveling to a new country for work.
Building Workplace Wellness Through Immunization
Immunizations are a proven public health intervention and can be implemented at your workplace on varying scales. The four steps of the workplace health model can guide program planning.
Step 1: Assessment
- What are the risks, concerns, current programs, and needs?
- Have employees received the flu vaccine the past season?
Step 2: Planning
- What will the program address, what are the goals and how will they be met?
- Gain support of management/leadership for the immunization program to cultivate interest from employees.
- What resources are available for an immunization program?
- Can an outside organization be contracted to provide immunizations on-site?
- Develop a communication plan to ensure all employees are aware of the immunization program
Step 3: Implementation
- Provide education about the program
- Promote your vaccination program
- Offer incentives for participation in the immunization program
Step 4: Evaluation
- Review of quality, effectiveness, and significance of activity
- Survey employees for feedback
- Track outcomes from program
- Increase in percentage of employees immunized
- Number of sick days used during flu season
Drop by your local Test Smartly Labs today or schedule an appointment for your drug test.
