This week, I missed a significant amount of work to be home with my kids, both of whom were sick. Because this week I happened to have deadlines, I did some work from home in the evenings and when the kids were occupied, so probably worked a total of 25 hours (as opposed to my typical 40) this week.

It made me wonder if anyone has studied the economic costs of caring for ill children. I thought epidemiologists, economists, particularly those interested in labor markets, and policy makers might be interested in the issue.

I found a few articles related to chronic or severe long-term illnesses and disabilities. Several articles, on the other hand, tried to quantify the economic benefit of vaccinating children against the flu.

One study found a $4 positive benefit of the flu vaccine per child, and a $35 positive benefit per child if everyone in a group setting like daycare was vaccinated. The study used very interesting assumptions, including about participation rates in the workforce and likely family behavior (they assumed it would always be a female caregiver who stayed home with an ill child).

In addition to finding a positive financial benefit, the study indicated that if the flu vaccine is found to also prevent ear infections (an issue I am personally interested in!) the financial benefit would go way up.

Just a little bit of musing as we head into the weekend. I hope everyone here in Minnesota has a chance to enjoy the slightly warmer weather.