What time of year should I organise my company’s flu vaccinations?

In our experience it is always best to plan ahead. Organising an onsite flu vaccination programme can take longer than originally planned. There are many aspects to consider. We’d recommend getting your quotations during Summer and if you are wanting an early vaccination session, to get yourself booked in as early as you feel able as September is very popular and usually gets fully booked before the weather changes for Autumn.

For the best protection, the optimal timing for vaccination of your staff is between September and early December, before flu viruses begin to circulate within the community. Please bear in mind protection is not instant, it takes roughly 14 for your body to produce antibodies which will protect you from infection.

Another point to consider is that flu vaccines are manufactured to order, and the production lead time is about 6 months, so the number of vaccines is always finite. Some companies do run out of stock and so making your arrangements as early as possible is the best way to secure vaccine supplies.

Remember, it is never too late to get vaccinated against the flu as a flu jab offers more protection than nothing, even if it is given later in the season than is optimal.