In 2024, Germany has seen a record high in sick leave, with insured individuals averaging 17.7 days off work in the first eleven months, surpassing the previous years' figures.

This increase in sick leave days is notable compared to 17.4 days in both 2022 and 2023, and 13.2 days in 2021, with the average prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 being only 14.1 days.

The primary causes of sick leave are respiratory illnesses, including flu, bronchitis, and COVID-19, followed by mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

A recent nationwide survey commissioned by Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) revealed that 77% of Germans take precautions to avoid spreading colds, such as limiting social contacts at the first signs of illness.

This sense of responsibility regarding contagious illnesses appears to be influenced by the pandemic experience, as many individuals have retained these behaviors.

Additionally, 71% of respondents indicated they try to avoid crowded places when feeling unwell, with a higher tendency among women (74%) compared to men (67%).

Among the under-40 age group, 50% report notifying others when they are sick, and 29% continue to wear masks during illness, reflecting ongoing impacts from COVID-19 safety measures.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has expressed concern about high sickness rates at the Grünheide plant, highlighting potential industry-wide implications for employee health.

The high sickness rate has raised alarms in the business sector, with Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius emphasizing the negative impact on Germany's economic competitiveness compared to other European nations.

The Forsa survey, conducted in October 2024 with 1,003 participants aged 18 and older, underscores a sustained awareness of health responsibilities among the population.

TK CEO Jens Baas noted that people seem to have retained the awareness from the pandemic about protecting others from infection, which is reflected in their current health behaviors.

Overall, many individuals have adapted their social behaviors post-pandemic, with 43% typically informing others they have been in contact with when they become ill.