Employers’ frequently asked questions
All residents of British Columbia (BC) who are 12 years and older can find their vaccine records
online at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/health-gateway
“Immunize Now” nurses document any vaccines given in the BC government documentation
system.
Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about vaccination services in the workplace.
What is the process for organizing a clinic?
Once Immunize Now and the employer agree on a date for the immunization clinic, the employer will receive a Client Service Agreement to sign and return with a down payment.
Employers assign a vaccine clinic coordinator. This coordinator determines how many people plan to be immunized, where the clinic will take place, and the date and time of the clinic. Using either the online booking system or employee sign-up sheets, employees will be reminded to attend their appointed time to be vaccinated.
Immunize Now can take on the responsibility of organizing the clinic for an additional cost.
When is the best time of year to hold an influenza vaccine clinic?
It is recommended that the influenza vaccine be offered by the end of October, before influenza activity in the community begins. Vaccination can be offered as long as influenza viruses are circulating and unexpired vaccines are available - into January.
Why do older employees get sick with the flu more often than younger people?
As people age, their ability to develop immunity to germs decreases. The older people are, the more likely they are to become very sick from viruses. People whose immune systems are already weakened are also more likely to get sick. Protect yourself and others by getting vaccinated.
Some people have needle phobias. How does Immunize Now give flu vaccines to these people?
Needle phobia is real and should not be dismissed. A large percentage of people inherit a response to needles that causes symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, and nausea. No blame or shame should be attached to needle phobia.
Strategies nurses with Immunize Now use are asking the client what they think will help, distraction, immunizer patience (waiting until the client is ready), privacy, lying down, explaining every step, and kindness.
The nasal flu vaccine (Flumist) can be given to people until age 49 years of age. The nasal mist
does not hurt. For employers, Flumist must be requested well ahead of the clinic date. Providing
needle phobic people with Flumist is a health promoting strategy recommended by Immunize Now.
What if someone has a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine?
Although rare, anaphylaxis can occur with vaccines (1:1,000,000 for influenza vaccines). Nurses assess every client for allergy risk factors.
All nurses working with Immunize Now are trained in the management of anaphylaxis. An anaphylaxis kit is available at every immunization clinic.
What insurance coverage does Immunize Now have when conducting a flu clinic?
Each nurse immunizer carries personal liability insurance. Immunize Now also carries business and liability insurance.
What about vaccinating large groups of people?
No problem.
Each nurse can vaccinate approximately 10 people per hour. Depending on your employee population and space for social distancing, Immunize Now nurses can vaccinate large numbers of people per day.
With adequate notice, large clinics of over 30 people can be accommodated.
How much will it cost to host a vaccination clinic?
Cost to host a clinic depends on how many people want to be immunized. The cost is based on a per person amount. Determine how many employees want to be immunized and multiply by the cost per person. The exact amount depends on the cost of vaccines at the time of the clinic. A small set up and take down fee will be added.
Contact Immunize Now for an estimate.
By what date should I organize a vaccine clinic?
All clinic dates and numbers of clients attending will be decided in collaboration with Immunize Now nurses at least two weeks prior to a clinic date.