September 11, 2019
National Immunization Awareness Month

Accourding to the CDC, adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. You are also at risk for different diseases as an adult. Vaccination is one of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available.

The CDC states ALL adults need:

You may need other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, or travel habits. Learn more about what other vaccines may be recommended for you and talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you.

Vaccines reduce your risk of infection by working with your body's natural defenses to help safely develop immunity to disease.

Health and Wellness Center Vaccines

Use the collapsible menu below to find key information regarding resources available through the HWCs.

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and can lead to hospitalization and death.

The best way and most important step to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine each year. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

Flu Vaccines will be available at no cost to all Pasco County School Employees beginning in October. Stay tuned for more information.

CDC recommends pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine for all adults 65 years or older, people 2 through 64 years old with certain medical conditions, and adults 19 through 64 years old who smoke cigarettes.

Talk with your healthcare professional if you have questions about pneumococcal vaccines. More information from the CDC on the vaccine can be found here.

CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for all babies and children, preteens and teens, and pregnant women. Adults who have never received a dose of Tdap should also get vaccinated against pertussis. Talk with your healthcare professional if you have questions about whooping cough vaccines.

More information from the CDC on the Tdap vaccine can be found here.

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A can affect anyone. Vaccines are available for long-term prevention of HAV infection in persons 1 year of age and older. Good personal hygiene and proper sanitation can also help prevent the spread of hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B is a serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the liver. The virus, which is called hepatitis B virus (HBV), can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. Hepatitis B vaccine is available for all age groups to prevent HBV infection.

Both vaccines are available at the HWCs, but will require an appointment with a provider. More information from the CDC on Hepatitis A can be found here. More information on Hepatitis B can be found here.

Florida Blue - Patty's Points

Immunization Coverage

 

For more information on immunizations covered by Florida Blue for both adults and children, click here!

2019 Health & Wellness Incentive (HWI) Program

Did you know Pasco County Schools offers incentives for covered employees and retirees who complete their annual Vital Health Profile? This program is voluntary; however, participants must follow the steps outlined here in order to qualify for the 2019 incentive.

Pascofit Incentives earned during the 3rd quarter of the HWI Program (July 1 - September 30) are scheduled to be paid out November 15.

Click here for more information.

​Monthly Challenge

ACTS OF KINDNESS!

According to 10-day study by Buchanan and Bardi which measured life satisfaction, participants who performed acts of kindness experienced an increase in life satisfaction even after just a short period of time.

This month, set a goal to do one act of kindness most if not every day of the week!

Employee Benefits and Risk Management, HREQ