Absenteeism increases in October: the flu season continues

20 November 2025

Autumn is making its presence known in the workplace: absenteeism rose again in October. The average absenteeism rate for this month was 5.0% compared to 4.7% in September. In October 2024, it was 4.9%. This is based on figures from the occupational health and safety service providers ArboNed and HumanCapitalCare, both part of HumanTotalCare and jointly serving around 1 million employees. The figures underscore the importance of focusing on recovery and workload capacity, especially during flu season.

Increase in virtually every sector

There was also an increase in the number of employees reporting sick. In September, there were 62 sick reports per 1,000 employees, which rose to 67 per 1,000 in October. This increase can be seen in almost every sector and is at a normal level for this time of year. The increase is in line with the seasonal pattern where flu-like symptoms, colds and other autumn-related complaints are more common, resulting in an increase in short-term absenteeism.

The colder months

“From September onwards, we almost always see an increase in the number of sick reports due to these flu-like symptoms,” says Iris Homeijer, Occupational Physician and Director of Medical Affairs at HumanCapitalCare. “Most employees recover within a week, but if several colleagues are out sick at the same time, this can increase the workload significantly. That is precisely when it is important for organisations to stay alert. By working together to identify which tasks are a priority and which can be temporarily postponed, you can prevent the pressure felt by colleagues from increasing further and compromising the continuity of the business.”

Runny nose protocol

Employers can limit absenteeism by taking preventive measures. “This includes encouraging employees to work from home if they have cold symptoms – the runny nose protocol so to speak – and ventilating rooms more often,” says Homeijer. “Basic hygiene, such as washing your hands, is also important as always. By taking these measures seriously, you can prevent unnecessary infections.”

Considering workload capacity during recovery

When employees return to work after having the flu or a cold, it is important for the employer and employee to continue discussing workload capacity. “Recovery is an essential part of employability,” explains Homeijer. “Work together to identify what is possible now and align the recovery process accordingly. This can be done, for example, by temporarily adjusting work tasks or enabling employees to work from home. This allows employers to create a healthy work environment that focuses on sustainable employability.”