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Occupational Medicine 52:265-269 (2002)
Copyright © 2002 Society of Occupational Medicine

Sickness absence due to influenza

F. W. O'Reilly * and A. B. Stevens {dagger}

*Occupational Health Unit, Belfast City Council, Belfast; and {dagger}Department of Risk and Occupational Health, Royal Hospitals Trust, Belfast, UK

Correspondence to: Dr A. B. Stevens, Department of Risk and Occupational Health, Royal Hospitals Trust, Belfast, UK. e-mail: tony.stevens{at}royalhospitals.n-i.nhs.uktony.stevens@royalhospitals.n-i.nhs.uk

Abstract

In addition to its recognized health effects, influenza has socio-economic consequences, most notably sickness absence and associated work disruption. It may account for 10–12% of all sickness absence from work. Data on the impact of influenza on work are limited. Most research has assessed the impact of an intervention, usually influenza immunization. Within the available literature, there are five randomized controlled trials in the workplace that have assessed the effectiveness of influenza immunization as an intervention: two in the general working population and three in the health sector. If the benefit desired is a reduction in sickness absence as a cost-effective measure, the likely outcome is a modest gain in years when incidence of influenza is increased in the community. There are some distinctive factors in the health care industry: health care workers may exhibit different absence behaviour, they may be more exposed to infection at work and they may pose a risk as a source of nosocomial infection. From the occupational health perspective, how do we best inform employers currently? The cost-effectiveness case has not been absolutely proven. More research appears necessary, including assessment of those factors that influence uptake of influenza immunization. In the interim, a targeted approach to certain job categories may be the way forward.

Keywords      Absenteeism; health care sector; immunization; influenza; influenza vaccine; sick leave; workplace


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