German Sick Leave Hits Record High with Nearly 18 Days Per Worker in 2024

Respiratory illnesses remain the leading cause of absences, followed by mental health and musculoskeletal issues, according to Techniker Krankenkasse data.

Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) reported an average of 17.7 sick days per insured worker from January to November 2024, the highest level recorded by the organization.
This marks an increase from 17.4 days in 2022 and 2023, and a significant rise compared to 13.2 days in 2021 during the pandemic's early phase.
Respiratory illnesses, including flu, bronchitis, and COVID-19, accounted for the majority of sick leave, with mental health conditions like depression and anxiety as the second most common cause.
A survey commissioned by TK revealed that 77% of respondents avoid social interactions when experiencing early symptoms of illness, reflecting lingering behavioral changes from the pandemic.
Other protective measures, such as avoiding crowded spaces and notifying close contacts of illness, continue to be practiced by many Germans, with women more likely to adopt these precautions than men.