Same thing happens every FEB and MAR. It has for the last 4 years. JM and EXT until summer time, when people don't get sick. Next month should be interesting with the TDY's.
They continue to blame it on unplanned absences. Problem is they don't work with people to get days off they need for special events. Everyone's figured out its much easier to call in sick rather than deal with trying to 'do the right thing'. Just like how the CIH policy changed. Now people will might continue to try and get to work instead of calling in. The company is slowly learning.