Municipal workers might have a step up on staying healthy this flu season if they take advantage of flu shot programs offered to employees by both the Village of Lake Orion and Orion Township.
On Oct. 21, Orion Township will pay the $20-per-injection fee for any employee who wishes to get a shot when Crittenton Occupational Medicine Program sets up shop at township hall for the day.
Additionally, Orion Township employees have the option of getting their shots elsewhere, paying out of pocket and receiving a reimbursment of up to $20 for the vaccine. The Oakland County Health Division offers flu vaccines for $11.
The township paid the same $20 fee last year, said township Supervisor Matthew Gibb.
The flu shot program was approved via consent agenda at a Sept. 20 regular meeting of the township board.
The idea, Gibb said, is to save money by keeping employees healthy and productive, rather than paying for sick days.
The village also offers a flu shot program, but does not bring in a provider. Instead, all employees who choose to get a shot do so independently and submit the paperwork for reimbursement.
‘Most went to Oakland County,? said Village Manager Paul Zelenak, noting village council and members of other boards are not considered employees.
Zelenak estimated the village has paid about $50 per year to cover employee flu shots.
‘Not everyone takes advantage of it,? he said. ‘But working with the public, everyone comes in contact with a lot of people. Once they catch it, they’re likely to spread it to everyone else they come in contact with.?