Absenteeism up slightly in January, flu epidemic starts later

19 February 2026

The national absenteeism rate stood at 5.1% in January, up slightly from 4.9% in December 2025. This increase is in line with the typical seasonal pattern, although for now the number of sick days reported is lower than in previous years. 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.

Sick leave in January at lowest level since 2021

In January, there was an average of 69 sick days registered per 1,000 employees. This is more than in December (53), but still less than last year, when there were 85 reports in January. This means that 2026 has the lowest number of sick days reported in January in the past five years. However, this low number does not mean that the flu season will not hit later this year. Last week, the RIVM announced that the annual flu epidemic has now begun, albeit slightly later than last year.

According to Redmer van Wijngaarden, Director of Medical Affairs and Occupational Physician at ArboNed, this variation falls within the normal seasonal pattern. ‘The number of sick days in January was relatively low for the time of the year, although it was not exceptional. The flu season starts early in some winters and later in others. However, flu-like symptoms almost always increase in winter. Simple preventive measures such as keeping your distance, regularly washing your hands and ensuring good ventilation help limit the spread.’

Spring break affects figures

The flu season is expected to have a more noticeable impact on absenteeism figures in February. The number of sick days reported appears to have risen in the first week of February. Holiday periods such as spring break temporarily affect reported figures. During spring break, people report in sick less often because they are off work. After the break, there is usually a catch-up effect, with existing complaints being reported as soon as the holiday is over. It is therefore likely that absenteeism will increase further towards the end of February.

Prepared for temporary peaks

Although employees with flu-like symptoms usually recover within seven days, multiple simultaneous absences can increase the pressure in the workplace. This tends to be particularly noticeable in sectors with limited coverage options for staff. Good coordination helps to keep the workload manageable. ‘If absenteeism increases, it helps to look together at what is feasible,’ says Van Wijngaarden. 'Which tasks are a priority, what can be done later and how can you help each other? Sometimes someone with mild symptoms can still perform certain tasks or work from home (temporarily). By discussing workload capacity, tasks and expectations in good time, the pressure of work can stay manageable. It is especially important during the recovery phase to prevent excessive overload and to gradually build up the level of activity.’