Dutch sick leave hits 2021 low—but February may reverse the trend

Sick leave among Dutch workers fell to its lowest level since 2021 in January 2023. Data from two major occupational health providers showed 69 reports per 1,000 employees. This figure still marked an increase from December 2022, when the rate stood at 53 per 1,000.

The January 2023 rate represents the lowest recorded since the same month in 2021. However, experts warn that absenteeism typically climbs in February. A further rise is also expected after the spring break.

Medical director Redmer van Wijngaarden noted that flu-like illnesses often surge during winter. The data covers around one million employees across the Netherlands. No direct comparison with January 2022 was available in the latest figures.

While January's sick leave rate dropped compared to recent years, the trend may reverse soon. February usually sees higher absenteeism, with another spike likely after spring holidays. The figures reflect ongoing seasonal patterns in workplace health.