Keep those germs to yourself!

Should I go in to work today? It’s a question many of us face as coughs and sniffles make the rounds. We all know the drill—one person turns up sick, and before you know it, half the office is down. Research shows that staying home when you’re unwell isn’t just good for you, it helps keep workplaces healthier and more productive. After all, no one wants to be that person spreading the office flu.

Timing Matters for Flu Prevention

Flu season typically lasts around 13 weeks, peaking in late July to early August. Last year, cases remained high from July through September. Since vaccine effectiveness peaks about two weeks after vaccination and declines by 7-11% per month, the ideal time to get vaccinated is before mid-April—just before school holidays and public holidays, when you definitely don’t want to be sick.

How Does the Flu Spread?

The incubation period typically ranges from 1-3 days (but can extend up to 7 days), and infected individuals can start spreading the virus 1-2 days before symptoms appear. Transmission occurs through droplets generated by sneezing and coughing, direct or indirect contact (hands, eyes, food), and even tiny airborne aerosols that can travel large distances. That means “shared air” environments, like open-plan offices, require enhanced respiratory precautions such as masks, filtered air, and strict hand hygiene.

The True Cost of Influenza

Despite this, flu remains one of the most underestimated illnesses. It’s responsible for more annual cases than any other vaccine-preventable disease and accounts for 65% of the total economic burden caused by all vaccine-preventable illnesses. The indirect costs, such as lost productivity, are 2.5 times higher than direct healthcare costs.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy

So why do people still hesitate to get the flu shot? Vaccine hesitancy remains a barrier, with 20-30% of people unsure about getting vaccinated. Educating people about the flu vaccine’s benefits, including its safety, ability to prevent severe illness, and cost-effectiveness is key.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Flu Vaccination

The flu vaccine costs about the same as four to five coffees per year – a lot less than a GP visit. But the savings don’t stop there.

• Fewer doctor visits & medications: Treating the flu can mean multiple GP visits, prescription costs, and over-the-counter meds – all expenses that quickly add up.
• Less disruption to daily life: Flu symptoms can last for weeks, impacting everything from work commitments to family time and weekend plans.
• Protecting those around you: Getting vaccinated helps prevent passing the flu to colleagues, family members, and vulnerable people like young children and the elderly.

When you add it all up, a quick jab now can save a whole lot of hassle later.

Prevention is the Best Cure

Ultimately, prevention is the best and most cost-effective treatment. The flu vaccine is safe, effective, and a small step that can make a big difference in keeping yourself and your workplace healthy. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to book your flu shot with Working Wise.