Influenza vaccine coverage and presenteeism in Sedgwick County, Kansas

The likelihood of persons working while ill, a practice known as "presenteeism," must be assessed when making preparations for pandemic influenza. A questionnaire was distributed to evaluate various health care professionals' past presenteeism, future intent to work with an influenza-like illness (ILI), and vaccination status. Of the respondents who reported that they would call in sick, 47% reported previously working with an ILI. Overall, males were more likely than females to have been vaccinated, to haved stayed at work when ill, and to have previously worked with an ILI. Because limiting the spread of influenza depends on community action, knowing a community's attitudes and behaviors can help target educational and preparedness efforts.