Effectiveness of worksite interventions to increase influenza vaccination rates among employees and families

Objective:: To increase influenza vaccination rates among industrial employees and their families through a campaign at a large corporation. Methods:: This prospective, multisite study used employee surveys and claims data to evaluate an evidence-based worksite vaccination program. Results:: Vaccination rates among insured employees and dependents (N = 13,520) increased significantly after the intervention (P < 0.001). More than 90% of vaccinated employees received vaccine at employer-sponsored events. There was a strong association between employee and family vaccination status. Primary reasons for receiving the vaccine were economic (free 84%; convenient 80%; avoid absenteeism 82%), rather than health-related. Knowledge was associated with vaccination, but customized education did not change beliefs. Conclusions:: Worksite programs can demonstrably increase vaccination rates among industrial employees and families. Consideration should be given to repositioning vaccination from medical treatment to community initiatives offered with other worksite health promotion programs.