Every businessperson does what they can to protect their company. Strategic planning is a part of every move to ensure the likelihood of success. Insurance provides all sorts of protection. But even so, we sometimes forget to protect our most valuable resources – our people. People are the backbone of any organization. In today’s economy each person can be mission critical in carrying out the effective operations of any business, large or small.
Earlier this year, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) declared an epidemic of whooping cough (Pertussis), a highly contagious bacterial illness spread by coughs and sneezes. Transmission can also occur indirectly through touching contaminated shared surfaces in common areas. The work environment is a potential place for Pertussis to spread quickly.
Although Pertussis most significantly impacts the health of infants and children; adults who get infected with the bacteria can potentially be off work for months due to severe coughing attacks. Employees may also spread infection to their children, who can become severely ill. The employee may require time to care for their family and need to take time away from work.
In response to the high levels of Pertussis in the community, the CDPH is recommending that all Californians make sure that they are immunized against this disease, especially if they are in contact with infants and children. Many adults may require “booster” vaccinations to achieve immunity.
The Tdap vaccine which became available in 2005 offers the best protection against whooping cough. The threat of Pertussis affecting employees and the potential effect on businesses is clear. Vaccination is the best defense against whooping cough.
- Dr. Minh Q. Nguyen, Area Medical Director
