More than half of U.S. companies host onsite flu shot events for their employees, yet only 25 to 30 percent participate. Flu shots are a simple and cost effective method to prevent illnesses that impacts the bottom line through lost work time and reduced productivity, said Kris Haugen, wellness program manager, corporate benefits for Wells Fargo. It's also important to reduce barriers for receiving flu shots by offering this service conveniently at the workplace.

Flu season in the U.S. is typically from November through April, with peak activity between late December and early March. Adults develop peak antibody protection about two weeks after vaccination. However, this year the CDC has revised its recommendations as to when to receive the seasonal flu shot to as soon as available.

Total Wellness is providing corporate flu vaccination clinics to thousands of companies in every state across the country. The company will secure H1N1 vaccine for its corporate clients as soon distribution begins in late October.

Increasing Participation in Workplace Flu Clinics:

Given the low rates of participation in flu clinics, Total Wellness offers the following recommendations.

Provide the flu vaccination program each year for consistency; Offer employers the vaccination for free and encourage them to bring their families; Secure senior level management support; For shift workers, offer several clinics to reach all employees; Provide flu shots in coordination with other events such as screenings and open-enrollment; and Increase participation by online appointment scheduling tools like Employeesignup. Keep sign-ups simple.

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