Spring into Action!
By Stacey Holder
There is light at the end of the darkened [COVID] tunnel. Administration of the COVID-19 vaccine is the top priority of the nation since the beginning months of 2021. As states receive vaccine shipments, they continue to mobilize by providing numerous vaccination sites in order to accommodate and vaccinate as many people as possible. Currently, more locations, such as grocery stores and doctors’ offices, are also providing vaccine appointments.
The CDC notes that “Strong confidence in the vaccines within your workplace leads to more people getting vaccinated, which leads to fewer COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths” (CDC, 2021). Every small action taken offers greater opportunity for businesses to continue to navigate the ever-changing realm of this virus.
In support of small- and medium-sized businesses, the IRS is providing a tax credit to fully off-set the cost of paid leave for employees to get vaccinated and recover from any after-effects of vaccination (IRS, 2021).
Strong confidence comes from strong leadership and the CDC advises businesses to:
Encourage leadership to be vaccine champions.
Communicate transparently to all workers about vaccination.
Create a communication plan. Share key messages with staff through posters, emails, and other channels.
Provide regular updates. Clearly communicate what is not known.
Make visible the decision to get vaccinated and celebrate it!
Questions regarding the vaccine and where to get them will certainly remain. You can be well informed by getting the most updated guidance from the CDC on their website’s FAQ page about the Covid-19 Vaccination.
Stay the course and we will be equipped to support our employees through this pandemic and beyond. If you would like additional information or advice, please do not hesitate to contact JLM HR Consulting on our website or give us a call at 240-408-5071.
Resources:
https://www.hrdive.com/news/employers-should-offer-paid-leave-for-vaccine-recovery-cdc-says/597164/
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/essentialworker/workplace-vaccination-program.html
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/employer-tax-credits-for-employee-paid-leave-due-to-covid-19
CDC Summary of Recent Changes