Protecting Your Workforce: The Measles Outbreak and the Importance of Employee Wellness & Insurance

The Growing Concern: Measles Outbreak in 2024-2025

Measles cases are on the rise in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting multiple outbreaks across different states. Measles is highly contagious, spreads through airborne particles, and can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. Employers must recognize the risks and take proactive steps to protect their workforce.

Source:CDC Measles Cases & Outbreaks – https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html

How Measles Impacts Businesses & Employee Productivity

A single case of measles in the workplace can cause significant disruptions, including:

• Increased employee absenteeism due to illness or quarantine.

• Productivity loss from workers taking care of sick family members.

• Potential workplace transmission, leading to further outbreaks.

• Higher healthcare costs for uninsured or underinsured employees.

  
  

The Role of Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance plans help employees access vaccinations, preventive care, and treatment when needed. Major medical insurance providers, such as Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), HAP, and Aetna, cover routine vaccinations, doctor visits, and hospitalization for complications. Ensuring your employees are covered under a robust health plan can prevent financial strain and encourage preventative health measures.

Supporting Info:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield Preventative Care: https://www.bcbs.com/the-health-of-america/prevention

• HAP Vaccination Coverage: https://www.hap.org/health-insurance/coverage/preventive-care

  
  

Supplemental Benefits: An Extra Layer of Protection

Even with major medical coverage, unexpected healthcare costs can burden employees. Supplemental insurance options like accident insurance, hospital indemnity, and critical illness policies provide additional financial support in case of medical emergencies related to measles or other infectious diseases. These benefits:

• Cover hospital stays, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses.

• Provide lump sum payments for covered illnesses.

• Help employees recover financially after a health crisis.

Example Broker:

• Broker of Supplemental Insurance: https://www.worklifebc.com/services

  
  

Encouraging Workplace Wellness & Vaccination Awareness

Employers can promote preventative healthcare by:

✅ Offering on-site flu and MMR vaccination clinics.

✅ Providing wellness programs focused on immunity and health education.

✅ Encouraging telehealth options for sick employees to prevent workplace spread.

Source:

• National Foundation for Infectious Diseases – Workplace Immunization: https://www.nfid.org/immunization/workplace-immunization/

  
  

How Worklife Benefit Consultants Can Help

At Worklife Benefit Consultants, we help businesses design customized health insurance and supplemental benefits strategies that keep employees protected and businesses running smoothly. Whether it's evaluating health plan options, implementing wellness initiatives, or adding supplemental coverage, we guide you every step of the way.

Schedule a Consultation Today: https://www.worklifebc.com/scheduleacall

Final Thoughts

The measles outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of employee wellness, preventive care, and strong health benefits. Employers that take proactive steps to support their workforce’s health will see fewer disruptions, lower costs, and improved employee satisfaction.

By investing in comprehensive health and supplemental insurance plans, you’re not only protecting your employees—you’re securing the future of your business.