Infection Control & Immunisation

Control of infectious diseases, like influenza and gastroenteritis, continues to be one of our highest health priorities, as these consistently prove to be a significant cause of illness in our communities. 

The facts

• Influenza is different to a cold; it is potentially a serious illness that can kill.  Up to one in five people will become ill with influenza every year.  Being fit and healthy will not prevent you from being infected with an influenza virus. The influenza (flu) vaccines are 70% to 90% effective in healthy adults, reduce sick leave and are therefore cost effective for employers.
• A wide variety of micro-organisms – bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses and other organisms - can cause illness in people.  Many of these can contaminate food.  Food borne illness is estimated to strike about 200,000 New Zealanders every year. Thorough washing and drying of hands is the most effective way of preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

WorkWell for Infection Control & Immunisation

Outbreaks of infectious disease are common in workplaces, as many people operate in close proximity and share the same surfaces and resources.  Many people rely on work to provide for families and lifestyle, and will often go to work despite being unwell and possibly infectious with bacterial or viral conditions.  It is therefore important for workplaces to promote good infection control strategies to help prevent the spread and impact of illness amongst their workforce.

Encouraging employees to keep themselves and their family up to date with immunisations can reduce absenteeism occurring from infectious diseases.  It will also contribute to better health in the wider community, as the spread of infectious disease is minimised. 

Download the WorkWell for Infection Control and Immunisation Toolkit.  Inside you’ll find documents and resources to help you ensure:

• Your infection control and immunisation programme is effective, sustainable and integrates with other WorkWell initiatives.
• The reasons for implementing an infection control and immunisation programme have been justified and help gain management approval.
• Your success in developing an infection control and immunisation policy and  plan of action.

Remember all workplaces undertaking WorkWell Accreditation are eligible to attend the FREE WorkWell Workshops or access FREE support from one of the WorkWell Advisors.