Businesses are being urged to expand workplace influenza vaccination as a relatively low-cost way to reduce employee absences, healthcare expenses, and productivity losses from preventable illness.
Health economist Dr. John Paul Caesar R. delos Trinos said companies could generate more than four pesos in avoided healthcare and productivity costs for every peso spent on workplace flu vaccination.
“Workplace vaccination offers a benefit-cost ratio of 4.20 to 4.35,” said Delos Trinos, adjunct faculty at the University of the Philippines Manila College of Public Health. “This means that for every peso invested, businesses can generate more than four pesos in avoided healthcare costs and productivity gains.”
The potential economic impact is significant as the Philippine labor force has reached 53.25 million. Influenza-related sick leave can leave companies short-staffed, disrupt operations, and reduce output, particularly in workplaces where employees work closely together.
Companies are also being encouraged to strengthen measures against respiratory illnesses during periods of heavy rainfall, when enclosed and air-conditioned workplaces can increase close-contact exposure.
Delos Trinos said preventive vaccination is particularly important for older workers and employees with chronic conditions, who face a higher risk of severe influenza and hospitalization.
He called for closer cooperation among employers, healthcare providers, and public health institutions to make workplace vaccination more accessible.
Companies can fund vaccination programs, while human resources teams and company physicians can provide employees with information and guidance. Health maintenance organizations can also incorporate flu vaccination into employee health benefits.
For employers, the economic case extends beyond medical expenses. Reducing illness-related absences can help maintain staffing levels, avoid operational disruptions, and protect productivity during periods of higher respiratory illness.
Delos Trinos said supportive government policies and guidelines could further expand workplace vaccination, helping companies shift from managing illness after it occurs to preventing avoidable health and productivity losses.
