We can’t live our best lives – or do our best work – without a strong foundation of health and wellness. (Don’t believe us? Try focusing on that expense spreadsheet the next time you have a cold. Then let us know how helpful those sniffles and sneezes are.)
Is that why workplace vaccinations have become increasingly popular in recent years? Or is it just the convenience and accessibility of an onsite clinic? Whatever the reason, we’re glad that more and more folks are taking proactive steps to preserve their health and the health of their colleagues.
Vaccinations play a crucial role in maintaining public health by not only helping prevent the spread of infectious diseases but also by protecting ourselves and our loved ones. But if you haven’t experienced the ease and speed of a workplace vaccine clinic, you might be wondering if it really lives up to the hype.
Read on to learn the benefits of getting vaccinated at work, and what to expect at your next workplace vaccination clinic – plus a few tips for making the most of this wellness service provided by employers.
In This Article:
- Why choose workplace vaccinations?
- Which vaccines can I get at work?
- What is the workplace vaccination process like?
- How much do workplace vaccinations cost?
Why Choose Workplace Vaccinations?
Accessibility
Between meetings, appointments, email chains, and day-to-day responsibilities, it’s a wonder that anyone has time to get vaccinated! Especially for preoccupied professionals, taking time off of work to prioritize health and wellness has become increasingly difficult.
That’s why one of the biggest benefits of workplace vaccination clinics is the fact they bring the vaccine to you. Gone are the days of scheduling conflicts and in their place are contemporary clinic providers who can help you work with your busy life instead of against it. Instead of worrying about missing crucial meetings or arranging transportation, all you have to do is show up for work like any other day.
This convenience makes it easier for all of us to drive down flu rates, stay healthy, and use the technology of our modern world to our advantage. All without unnecessary stress.
Community
Sure, you’ve probably stayed up to date with the crucial vaccines needed to preserve your health and wellness, but have all your colleagues done the same?
We know that a vaccinated workforce is a healthier, more productive workforce but due to the aforementioned accessibility issues of traditional vaccine services, this ideal isn’t always maintained. But, thankfully, with remote vaccine clinics coming right to the door of your place of work, you can work with your colleagues to create a stronger foundation for workplace wellness.
By participating in the vaccination program your employers have offered (hopefully!) you can shift the culture of your office towards one that sees health as a priority, not a privilege. This communal effort helps reduce the spread of illness, resulting in fewer sick days and a healthier workforce.
Plus, you can commiserate with your colleagues about the mild soreness that often follows a vaccination. Talk about a bonding moment!
Comfort
For folks with aversions to needles and shots, the comfort of getting vaccinated in a familiar setting and with the support of their coworkers can’t be beat. Even for individuals who don’t particularly mind getting jabbed, doing it in the office can alleviate some of the anxiety and discomfort associated with medical appointments.
Reinforcing the accessibility and community-building elements of a remote vaccination program, the ease of workplace clinics can provide a sense of solidarity and support, too. We always encourage employees to share their experiences with one another so everyone can feel more confident knowing this step is being taken together.
This camaraderie can make the experience more positive and less daunting.
Which Vaccines Can I Get at Work? FAQs for Employees
The vaccination opportunities provided by your employer will be dependent on the vaccine service provider they choose to partner with. But, just to give you an idea of what a reputable, full-service vaccination provider – like us! – could offer, here’s our lineup of vaccinations available at workplace clinics:
- COVID-19: Moderna (Spikevax)
- COVID-19: Pfizer (Comirnaty)
- COVDI-19: Novavax prefilled syringes
- Flu: Regular flu vaccines
- Flu: High-dose flu vaccines for patients 65+
If the vaccine service provider your employer is truly worth their salt, they’ll have complete transparency around the vaccine brands, types, and ingredients. Want to explore the ingredients of the vaccines we offer, for example? Contact our team here.
Learn More: Vaccine Ingredients in 2024: Less Scary Than You Might Think
Are Workplace Vaccinations Required?
We’ll keep this bit short and sweet: No, vaccination is not mandatory.
Rather, vaccination is a personal choice. The vaccine service provider your employer partners with should know and respect this, and we don’t recommend working with any providers who bully folks into making different health decisions.
Workplace vaccines are designed to mitigate the stress of getting vaccinated. While we hope everyone makes the most of these convenient vaccine opportunities so we can all be healthier together, you always maintain the right to make the choice that makes sense for you.
When’s the Best Time to be Vaccinated?
It’s important to remember that it takes about two weeks for flu vaccines to provide full protection. There are also certain times of the year when flu cases peak, so schedule your workplace vaccine with these factors in mind.
Flu Vaccination
- Best time: Mid-October to mid-November.
- Flu season typically peaks from December to March, unless it starts early.
For COVID-19, the scheduling looks a little different:
COVID-19 Vaccination
- As soon as it’s available, since COVID-19 circulates year-round, and most people experience waning immunity 3-6 months after exposure or vaccination.
Learn More: Seasonal Vaccination: When Should You Get Your Vaccines in 2024?
Can I Get Both COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines at the Same Time?
The answer: A resounding yes!
You can get both your COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time, and about 60% of people choose this option. If you do choose to protect yourself from both the flu and COVID-19, you’ll have the choice of which arm to get the vaccination. You can get both in one or one in each – whatever makes you most comfortable. The vaccines are just as effective when given together, and side effects are generally the same as if you received them separately.
(Psst – if you’re looking ahead at the 2025-2026 season, keep in mind that we will be offering a combined COVID-19 and flu shot for added convenience!)
Are These Vaccines Different from Last Year’s Vaccines?
Yes! Each year, flu and COVID-19 vaccines are updated to target the specific strains that are most likely to be circulating.
Because these viruses mutate so quickly, it’s hard to get it exact, but year after year the match is close enough to provide great protection against hospitalization and severe illness. This year’s vaccines have been tailored to the latest strains to keep you as protected as possible.
Learn More: Vaccine Season Preview: 2024-2025
What is the Workplace Vaccination Process Like?
Will There be Privacy?
Yes! Well, maybe. If you prefer a more private setting for your vaccination, work with a vaccine provider that will have your back.
Our team here at Village Apothecary is always happy to provide privacy screens or even a designated area to ensure you feel comfortable and secure during the process. Our goal is to make vaccination as easy and stress-free as possible for everyone, but we can’t speak for other vaccine service providers.
Are Workplace Vaccinations Effective?
The latest interim data from the CDC shows that the current vaccines are a good match for this season’s viruses, and are highly effective at reducing hospitalizations and outpatient visits, especially against influenza B strains. This means fewer severe illnesses and a healthier, more productive workforce.
Want even more detailed information? Check out the CDC report right here.
Are There Side Effects?
Vaccination can lead to some common side effects, such as headache, fatigue, fever, chills, — plus soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
But these symptoms are signs that your immune system is building protection – think of it as your body getting an ‘upgrade’ to better fight off infections!
Learn More: What is SIRVA? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
How Much Do Workplace Vaccinations Cost?
Good news, everyone! The vaccine services are typically covered in full by nearly all private and public insurance plans, so there are typically no out-of-pocket costs for you.
For those who are uninsured or underinsured, ask your employer about partnering with an organization like ours so, together, we can provide the lowest-cost vaccination options available. Because, if you ask us, your health and peace of mind shouldn’t come with financial stress.
Stay Healthy, Stay Productive
With grocery prices being what they are these days, the time for taking off work to get vaccinated is…not now.
Instead, stay healthy while staying on the clock by getting vaccinated at work. If you just skimmed this blog, we’ll recap it for you: Workplace vaccine clinics are the simplest, most convenient way to protect yourself and those around you from the flu, COVID-19, and more.
Together, we can create a healthier workplace and support each other in staying well throughout the year. And don’t forget – we’re a team! So if you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
