Slump 'forcing ill staff into work'

The state of the economy is forcing more people to go to work if they are suffering with a cold or flu, according to a report.

A survey of almost 2,000 adults by Lloydspharmacy found that a third were worried their employer would think they were skivving if they took time off ill.

Half of those questioned said they were more likely to struggle into work now because of the economic downturn.

Nitin Makadia of Lloydspharmacy said: "It's worrying to hear that people are concerned about taking time off work when they're genuinely ill for fear of repercussions from their employer.

"Times are hard for many people, but your health is really important too. Especially in the case of flu, it's vital that people protect both themselves and those who might be more vulnerable to infection."