INTRODUCTION: The vaccine against influenza is an efficient way to prevent flu episodes and its complications; however, its economical advantages for healthy workers are still controversial. This study was developed to characterize the occurrence of common respiratory problems, especially influenza, and evaluate an influenza vaccination program for workers. METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional study was developed among factory workers. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and respiratory diseases were collected. Flu episodes during the past year were characterized and vaccination was evaluated. RESULTS: Among 446 interviewed workers, 18.3% presented influenza-like episodes and 11.7% were absent because of flu. In general, 70% of workers evaluated the vaccination positively. CONCLUSION: The positive evaluation by workers and the low occurrence of side effects support the maintenance of the current vaccination program against influenza. However, the economic advantages of this vaccination program are still unclear, indicating the need for further studies.
Influenza; Vaccine; Absenteeism; Respiratory; Workers
