Unusually High Sick Leave in Summer: Causes & Measures

In summer 2023, a significant rise in sick leave made headlines across Germany. Even the Tagesschau picked up the story: DAK records unusually high sick leave in summer. While colds and respiratory illnesses are expected in the cold months, this time they were also unusually frequent in summer – raising questions about employee health and prompting companies to rethink how to better protect their workforce from frequent and prolonged illness.

The numbers at a glance: DAK health report shows sharp increase

According to the DAK health report, Germany’s sickness rate in summer 2023 reached around 5.5 percent – well above the typical summer range of 3 to 4 percent. On average, every 18th employee was off sick. Even more unusual: respiratory illnesses accounted for around 40 percent of reported cases – a share usually only seen in winter.

The DAK partly attributes this to the mild winter of 2022/23, which may have built up less immunity against common cold and flu viruses. Weather fluctuations and climatic changes are also putting the immune system under strain.

Causes: from respiratory infections to mental strain

The high sickness rate has several causes. Most absences are now caused by musculoskeletal disorders. Respiratory and mental illnesses follow in second and third place. In times of flexibility and remote work, long-term challenges become visible: constant availability and the feeling of having to be permanently “online” add to mental strain. An even bigger issue is poor ergonomics at home.

Notably, the number of sick days due to respiratory infections rose by 66 percent in summer 2023 – a clear sign that simple colds were running more intense and longer courses.

Studies confirm: climate change and changing weather affect sickness patterns

The rising number of summer illnesses is likely linked to climate change. WHO studies show that more frequent temperature swings and extreme weather put significant pressure on the immune system. Hot summers strain the respiratory system, while sudden temperature changes weaken the body’s defences.

A study by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) shows that climate change has both direct and indirect effects on health – from heatstroke to changing patterns of viruses and bacteria. This may explain why respiratory illnesses increasingly appear in warmer months as well.

Impact on companies: lost productivity and planning uncertainty

High absence rates pose serious challenges for companies. Lost productivity and planning uncertainty are direct consequences of more sick leave. Personnel-intensive sectors – care, retail, logistics – are hit hardest. Many companies had to bridge staffing gaps at short notice or adjust production targets.

Preventive measures: how companies can respond

1. Promote flexible work models: Working from home helps employees recover faster without infecting colleagues.
2. Create a healthy work environment: Air filters, regular cleaning and climate-controlled rooms improve air quality and help prevent colds.
3. Extended health programs: Flu and respiratory vaccinations, regular check-ups, health coaching and ergonomic equipment for the home office sustainably reduce absence rates.

Conclusion

The high sickness rate in summer 2023 is a wake-up call: workplace health – in the office and at home – is becoming a key competitive factor. Companies that invest in ergonomic equipment, prevention and flexible work models protect both employee health and business performance.

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