With the cold spell just around the corner, Jason Walker, managing director of Adlington (UK) digital print company, Everydayprint, has arranged for each of his 15 members of staff to receive a flu jab. Flu vaccinations are usually associated with people aged 65 and over along with other ‘at risk’ groups, such as asthma sufferers and those with diabetes, chronic heart conditions, kidney disease or lowered immunity.

However, as Walker commented, it pays to take precautions as flu does not discriminate: ‘The statistics show that flu kills around 4,000 people a year in the UK, which in this day and age, is pretty startling.’ He added: ‘A few eyebrows are raised when people hear that I’ve arranged for my staff to receive their vaccinations but I don’t think I’m being over the top with this.

Anyone can catch flu and it is never a pleasant experience.

It is far better to take responsible action and I’m only too pleased that everyone here has taken me up on my offer.’ Administering the vaccinations, Sheila Massey of Stockport-based Health Surveillance Services (HSS), applauded Walker’s attitude and commented: ‘Jason is adopting a positive attitude to his work force.

As well as his staff benefiting from knowing that the risk of catching flu has been reduced, his business will benefit too.

Every year, businesses lose around GBP12billion in lost time due to staff illness, which includes minor ailments, such as colds or flu.

Many large companies already adopt this attitude but very few small businesses demonstrate the same duty of care as shown by Everydayprint.’ Walker explained: ‘With Christmas on its way, the last thing anyone wants is for someone in their family to catch flu.

I’d not be very popular if it swept through our offices and then through the homes of all our staff when they’d rather be enjoying themselves.

I’m just pleased that we’ve done our bit and would urge other employers to do the same.’

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