Workplace flu vaccinations: what to know

An employer may arrange vaccination on site or through a partner clinic to make access easier during the flu season. Participation should be based on informed consent. You can ask who is giving the vaccine, where your health information will be held, and what happens if you need follow-up care.

The flu vaccine is designed to prepare the immune system to recognise influenza. The injectable vaccine commonly used in workplace programmes is an inactivated vaccine, which does not contain live influenza virus that can cause flu.

Read the consent information and tell the vaccinator about previous reactions to vaccines, allergies, current illness, pregnancy, and medicines that affect immunity or bleeding. Wear clothing that gives easy access to the upper arm. Remain for the observation period requested by the service after vaccination.

A sore arm, tiredness, headache, or mild feverish feeling can occur afterwards. Plan a quieter evening if you feel unwell, keep drinking fluids, and use usual self-care advice from the clinician or pharmacist if appropriate.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse, or a rapidly worsening reaction after vaccination. Contact a clinician if a high fever, severe symptoms, or a reaction that concerns you does not settle. Seek advice before the appointment if you are acutely unwell or have had a serious vaccine reaction before.

Ask which flu vaccine is offered, whether your health history changes the timing, what side effects to expect, and where to obtain care if symptoms develop after the workplace session.