Evolution of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Impact on Potential Sick Leave in the Federal State of Tyrol

Neururer, Sabrina B.; Schwaiger, Alexandra; Hackl, Werner O.; Taha, Hasan; Schweitzer, Marco; Walker, Andreas; Danler, Martin; Pfeifer, Bernhard

doi:10.3233/SHTI250199

Abstract

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic strained healthcare systems, with Tyrol, Austria, as an early hotspot due to Alpine tourism. Variants like Alpha, Delta, and Omicron influenced infection and hospitalization trends.

Objectives:

To assess how different variants affected hospital occupancy, sick leave, and infection rates in Tyrol.

Methods:

Daily data on infections, hospital occupancy, and variants from 2020–2022 were analyzed using statistical trend assessments.

Results:

Sick leave peaked at 38,542 days in early 2022 during the Omicron wave. Hospital occupancy rose significantly during Alpha and Omicron surges, despite milder disease severity for Omicron. Preventive measures temporarily reduced absenteeism.

Conclusion:

Highly transmissible variants caused significant healthcare strain despite lower severity. Adaptable crisis management strategies are essential for mitigating future pandemic impacts.