On the surface, it may seem that a flu shot may not make the list of Top 10 Productivity Tips, but when you evaluate the consequences of not getting flu shots, it quickly becomes obvious that this is a simple and valuable tool businesses should be encouraging employees to use.

According to David Cutler, a Harvard health economist:

• 1 in 5 Americans are expected to suffer from the flu between December and April.
• The loss in productivity created by their absence will cost the economy roughly $20 billion.

I’ve written quite a bit about time management issues and the need for creating some personal space in your life to help reduce stress. However, forced rest due to illness is not the best vehicle for getting things done and eliminating that daily pressure.

This week of November 26 to December 2 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. The shots can be obtained at local pharmacies and in doctors’ office for an average fee of $20, and the price is usually covered by insurance.

The New England Journal of Medicine found that these shots reduce absenteesim by 43% and doctors’ office visits by 44% with regard to upper respiratory infections. That is definitely a Return on Investment worth pursuing.