Advice for Employers this Spring

Covid-19 and Influenza

Covid cases have fallen dramatically since the first wave hit the UK in January 2020, but alongside Long Covid and other respiratory viruses, workplaces are still experiencing increased levels of short- and long-term sickness absence due to other issues, notably mental ill health and musculoskeletal problems.

For the most part, Covid cases have become less severe – according to our Chief Medical Officer, as part of our recent Spring Update webinar for clients, this is partly because the virus is fundamentally not as a potent as it was earlier in the pandemic, and partly because we have built up a degree of immunity from vaccinations and exposure. As a result, for most people, the chance of either getting very sick or dying from Covid is now thankfully much lower, with many showing few or no symptoms.

But for those who are high-risk, the NHS is now taking bookings from people in England wanting a free spring Covid booster vaccine. Those eligible, including everyone aged 75 or over (on 30 June 2024), people with a weakened immune system or who live in an older adult care home, can book via the NHS website, app or by calling 119.

“They (high-risk people) should be encouraged to continue to keep their Covid booster going to protect from serious illness and hospitalisation. We also know now that there is a reduced risk of Long Covid in those who are fully vaccinated.” Says Dr Alasdair Emslie, Chief Medical Officer at Health Partners.

Influenza (flu) can also put pressure on the workforce – the NHS has had more patients in hospital this winter with flu than with Covid, but of course this is seasonal. The Department of Health has announced that this year they are bringing forward the NHS Flu program by a month for certain high-risk groups, such as pregnant women and children.

“For those who are planning immunisation programmes for their workforce, and we certainly encourage that, generally see a reduction in the respiratory disease and a positive impact on attendance.” Says Dr Emslie.

As we continue into the summer months and people enjoy more time outdoors, workplaces should see short-time sickness and absence from these respiratory viruses reduce.

Mental Health

Mental health accounts for between 30 and 40% of all sickness absence in the workplace, with one in five people reporting experiencing anxiety or depression consistently in 2020, 21 and 22.

Spring can be an excellent time to address mental health after the winter months, which can often be challenging for many people. This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, 13th to 19th of May, is "Movement: Moving more for our mental health".

Though any exercise is good for our health, encouraging employees to spend their breaks outdoors to benefit from natural light has greater mood-boosting benefits than indoor exercise.

Regular physical activity also contributes to stronger muscles, denser bones, more flexible joints and improved balance, all of which are vital to carrying out daily activities and reducing the risk of injury.

Learn more about the role of exercise in musculoskeletal health: The Role of Exercise in Musculoskeletal Health | Health Partners Group

Employers should also consider offering access to mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) or counselling services.