According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the flu affects 5% to 10% of Canadians each year, which equates to sick days and productivity loss for employers. Today kicked off the provincial government’s flu campaign and it is encouraging employers to spread the message about getting the flu shot to their employees.
The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care has resources for employers on its website.
Employers that aren’t offering on site flu clinics should remind employees that pharmacists in Ontario are now able to administer the shot, making it easier for employees to get access. “I believe it will help many employers that are not large enough to support an on-site flu shot clinic. Having the vaccination available in local pharmacies is more convenient than scheduling a visit to the doctor’s office, which may increase uptake and compliance,” says Shawn O’Brien, vice-president and national business analytics Lead, health & benefits with Aon Hewitt.
Ontario pharmacists will begin administering flu shots at select local pharmacies across the province this week, as part of the Ontario government’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program.
“We have been eagerly awaiting this new role and are extremely pleased to be joining physicians and nurses in providing Ontarians with this year’s flu shot,” said Dennis Darby, CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists’ Association. “By having the option to visit their pharmacy for the flu shot, Ontario’s patients will benefit from better access to care during this year’s flu season.”
A list of pharmacies with an immunizing pharmacist is available here, and will be updated regularly.