An annual vaccination against influenza is recommended for all individuals, not just those in high-risk groups. While it is uncertain whether we will experience a significant influenza epidemic during the 2025-2026 season, it is prudent to prepare for a vaccination campaign if you wish to organise one.
What is influenza?
Influenza is often mistaken for a common cold; however, it is a more severe illness. It typically begins suddenly with symptoms such as high fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, a dry cough, and a runny nose. Influenza viruses are easily transmitted from person to person through close contact, coughing, or handshakes. Consequently, the workplace serves as an ideal environment for the spread of the virus.
Although individuals may feel very unwell during an influenza infection, it usually resolves on its own. Symptoms such as fever and pain generally subside within three to five days, although it may take several weeks for a person to feel completely recovered.
However, certain individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing complications from influenza. These individuals are classified as belonging to a "risk group".
Who is at increased risk?
The Superior Health Council recommends vaccination for the following groups:
- Individuals aged 65 and over
- Individuals with underlying chronic conditions (including pulmonary, cardiac, hepatic, renal, metabolic, neuromuscular, and immune disorders)
- Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40
- Pregnant women
- Individuals residing in care centres or hospitals
- Healthcare workers
- Individuals living with at-risk individuals or caring for children under six months old
The benefits of influenza vaccination
The influenza vaccination provides protection ranging from 70% to 80%. Even if vaccinated individuals contract influenza, they are likely to experience milder symptoms. The vaccine must be administered annually and does not protect against colds or other viruses. The optimal time for vaccination is late October or early November.
Side effects of the influenza vaccine
The only well-documented side effect is a local reaction at the injection site, which may include redness, pain, or swelling in approximately one in five individuals. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare and can be treated. Importantly, the vaccine cannot cause influenza.
Is offering influenza vaccination to your workers a good idea?
Vaccination is beneficial even for workers who are not part of at-risk groups. It can help reduce absenteeism and provide financial advantages to employers, as the costs associated with vaccination are lower than those incurred due to absenteeism.
In hospitals and care homes, vaccinating staff is particularly sensible. It helps to minimise the spread of infection in environments where chronic patients, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are present.
The factors influencing the benefits of vaccination include:
- The number of vaccinated workers
- The type and severity of the influenza virus
- The scale of the epidemic
- The effectiveness of the vaccine
Based on our experience, between 20% and 40% of workers are willing to be vaccinated.
Advocates for influenza vaccination at the corporate level believe it offers significant advantages for both employees and employers:
- Voluntary basis: Workers have the choice to accept this benefit.
- Protection: The vaccine is safe and provides protection for the worker.
- Fewer infections: A vaccinated worker is less likely to infect others, both at work and in their personal lives.
Collaboration and communication
Effective communication can persuade workers of the benefits of vaccination. Collaborate with your external prevention service and consult with your occupational health physician.
We have posters available to help raise awareness among your workers about the importance of vaccination and to explain the What, Who, When, Where, and Why of influenza vaccination.
FR - Affiche - Evitez que la grippe ne dicte votre planning… faites vous vacciner ! | Securex
NL - Affiche - Vermijd dat griep jouw planning bepaalt... laat je vaccineren! | Securex
If you are affiliated with Securex's external service, you can place an order between 17 June 2025 and 5 September 2025 via Health & Safety Online. If you have any questions about the campaign, please email influenzaSEP@securex.be.
