| Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sickness Presenteeism among Thai and Foreign Teachers Following the End of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency of International Concern |
Thanawat Hongsa1 
, Chan Pattama Polyong2
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1Science and Technology Learning Subject Group, Anuban Chonburi School, Chonburi, Thailand
2Occupational Health and Safety Program, Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand |
Corresponding author:
Chan Pattama Polyong, Tel: +66-879953306, Fax: +66-2473-7000,
Email: chanpattame.po@bsru.ac.th
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Received: 16 October 2023 • Revised: 7 November 2023 • Accepted: 19 November 2023 |
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| Abstract |
Background
Sickness presenteeism (SP) refers to the phenomenon where employees attend work while sick, a decision that impacts both their physical and mental well-being and can lead to burnout. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and factors influencing SP among Thai and foreign teachers following the end of the coronavirus disease 2019 public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).
Methods
A sample of 400 individuals was analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results
Post-PHEIC, a significant proportion of teachers (51.9%) perceived an increase in their workload, and 62.1% reported having taken health-related leave of absence. The prevalence of SP was high (35.0%). Factors significantly associated with SP (P<0.05) included being younger than 37 years (OR, 1.825; 95% CI, 1.108–3.006), facing monthly financial challenges (OR, 1.627; 95% CI, 1.028–2.575), doing school-related work on holidays (OR, 1.920; 95% CI, 1.180–3.122), and experiencing sleep disturbances owing to work-related stress (OR, 1.910; 95% CI, 1.203– 3.033). No discernible difference existed in SP rates between Thai and foreign teachers.
Conclusion
As a course of action, we recommend the provision of appropriate financial planning resources for teachers. Policywise, school events and activities should be scheduled on working days to ensure that teachers maintain a work-life balance. Additionally, task allocation that caters to individual strengths and limitations can mitigate the effects of SP. |
| Key Words:
Sickness Presenteeism; Teachers; Elementary School; Risk Factors; Prevalence |
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