Press Release Date: 2nd October 2012
That time of year has come round again, where the harsh change in weather means an increase in people coming down with the flu.
Influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads easily from person to person and causes annual epidemics that peak during winter in temperate regions.
An epidemic can take an economic toll through lost workforce productivity and strain health services.
A total of 11 million days are lost in Ireland to absence every year, costing businesses €1.5 billion or €818 per employee, with the main cause of short term absence cited as minor illness such as influenza. In 2009,employees missed 5.98 days on average. Absence levels were higher in large organisations, 3.58% for companies employing over 500 employees, versus 2.17% for companies with less than 50 employees.*
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.
The Tropical Medical Bureau offer walk-in clinics where you can get your flu vaccination from only €25 per person, including consultation. GloHealth members who have the Kids’ Health & Women’s and Men’s Health Personalised Packages can get their flu vaccine for FREE at any of the 22 TMB clinics nationwide.
The TMB also have group and corporate rates available. Early vaccination ensures minimum employee absenteeism due to flu during the winter months.
Dr Graham Fry, Medical Director of the TMB advises, “We would particularly advise elderly people, international travellers and other high risk categories to get vaccinated as they are most prone to infection.”
Andrew Lewis, CEO of the TMB says “We offer an on-site vaccination service for groups, companies or organisations of 20 or more and would strongly recommend corporate groups to avail of this service to prevent a high rate of employee absenteeism due to influenza this winter.”
The vaccine is specific to each winter and should be taken between September and October for maximum protection.
*IBEC – The survey was conducted in 2010 and based on full-year 2009 absentee levels.
Dr Graham Fry, Medical Director, Tropical Medical Bureau is available for comment / interview.
For further safety tips or further information on your medical needs or to book an appointment, please contact any of the Tropical Medical Centres or through www.tmb.ie
Tropical Medical Bureau have 21 clinics nationwide.
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