
Preventing Absences During Allergy Season: A Proactive Care Strategy for SMEs
Seasonal allergies don’t have to hurt your business—support your team with proactive care.
The dry season in the Philippines brings more than heat—it also kicks off a spike in allergy-related illnesses. For SMEs, that means a rise in sick leaves, decreased focus, and disrupted workflows, especially among employees prone to allergic rhinitis, asthma, or skin sensitivities.
The good news? These issues are manageable—and largely preventable—with the right support systems in place.
Why Allergy-Related Absences Spike This Season
Dry air, increased pollen, dust, and changes in temperature can trigger a range of symptoms:
Runny or blocked nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Sneezing fits and persistent coughs
Headaches, skin flare-ups, and respiratory discomfort
Even when symptoms are mild, they can significantly affect concentration and productivity—or lead to missed work altogether.
How SMEs Can Minimize Sick Leaves This Allergy Season
1. Educate Employees on Allergy Management
Share workplace reminders and digital posters on how to manage common allergens.
Encourage early detection and prompt action before symptoms worsen.
2. Offer Easy Access to Outpatient Care
Ensure your HMO covers quick consults for allergy treatment and maintenance medication.
With Doctor Anywhere, employees can consult a doctor online without needing to leave home or work.
3. Promote a Clean & Allergy-Friendly Work Environment
Schedule regular cleaning and replace air filters in shared spaces.
Allow work-from-home options for those experiencing stronger symptoms.
4. Encourage Preventive Health Behavior
Remind employees to stay hydrated and use prescribed antihistamines.
Promote APE utilization to catch signs of chronic respiratory issues early.
5. Make Filing Claims Simple
Use SmilePH to make the claims and reimbursement process fast and paperless.
Provide HR support to assist with LOGs and medical documentation.
Business Benefits of Proactive Allergy Care
✅ Reduced absenteeism
✅ Higher productivity, even during allergy season
✅ Improved employee morale and workplace trust
✅ Fewer unplanned disruptions to operations
Stay Ahead of Absenteeism This Dry Season
Learn how Purple Cow’s outpatient care coverage can help your employees manage allergies before they turn into missed workdays.