Employment related productivity loss associated with herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: A 6-month prospective study

► Herpes zoster and PHN have a negative impact on the productive life of individuals. ► 64% of employed subjects missed work because of herpes zoster and PHN. ► 76% of employed subjects had decreased effectiveness at work due to herpes zoster and PHN. ► Workers reported a mean of 27 h of absenteeism and 34 h of presenteeism. ► Higher pain severity and longer pain duration were associated with greater productivity loss.