According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seasonal flu in the United States results in over 200,000 hospitalizations and accounts for over $10 billion in healthcare expenses each year. Additionally, the flu is the reason behind 75 million sick days per year, costing employers over $16 billion in lost productivity. Employers can help their employees stay healthy while lowering healthcare costs by providing complimentary flu shots.
A flu shot protects individuals against the influenza virus strains that scientific research indicates to be most common during the upcoming season. Flu shot effectiveness can vary, but even during years when flu shot effectiveness is reduced, vaccination offers substantial benefits, including a reduction in severe flu outcomes (like hospitalization or death).