Many HR/benefits professionals have the vitally important responsibility of keeping their workforce safe and healthy. Since the H1N1 flu (also called swine flu) virulently emerged onto the world's stage in the spring of 2009, there is a great deal of interest in flu vaccinations.

The H1N1 virus is different from regular seasonal flu viruses that have spread in people over the past 30 years, so the seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to protect against this new virus.

A vaccine to protect against 2009 H1N1 influenza will be ready for the public during the 2009-2010 flu season (typically December through March), but this 2009 H1N1 vaccine is not intended to replace the seasonal flu vaccine. Many people will be advised to get both vaccines to protect against the flu this season.

. . . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that vaccination efforts focus on five key populations. When the vaccine is available, immunization programs and providers should focus first on vaccinating as many people as possible in the following five groups:

1. Pregnant women
2. People who live with or provide care for children younger than six months of age
3. Health care and emergency medical services personnel
4. People between six months and 24 years of age
5. People from the ages of 25 through 64 who are at higher risk because of chronic health disorders such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease or a weakened immune system

. . . You wear many hats in the HR/benefits area, but none perhaps more important than keeping your employees healthy and safe. Know your facts about the H1N1 flu and the seasonal flu so that you are not only a resource to your employees, but also so that you can plan your workplace flu vaccinations accordingly.

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