In this argument the author cites evidence to make a conclusion that use of Ichthaid is a good way to prevent colds and lower absenteeism. It seems logical at first glance, however, with my reflection, I find it unconvinced as the following reasons: first, the recommendation is based on a questionable assumption; second, the evidence provided to prove the assumption, the study, is open to question. These flaws will be uncovered shroud under my discussion below.
To begin with, the author assumes unfairly that colds are the reason most frequently given for absences; however, there is no sufficient evidence to verify it is the case. Common sense tells us that, people will seek kinds of excuse for their absences, and colds are always favorite. Without concrete investigation of their absentee's colds, we cannot be convinced that it is colds that the real reason for absences. Then the means carried for preventing colds are futile and the recommendation will not work well.
Secondly, the study cited in the argument lends little support as it stands. The author makes a mistake to treat the correlation between high fish consumption and low colds as causal relationship. We are not informed any information that it is the fish consumption that help the people in East Meria prevent colds. Unless the author shows some evidence to prove it is the case, I cannot be convinced by the study.
What is more, even if the study actually reveals the reason why there are low colds in East Meria, the analogy with West Meria is also open to quesion. There are maybe lots of difference between the two places which would induce different results. And the daily use of Ichthaid can not amount to high fish consumption, too. Ichthaid is only one kind of nutrition, and the author provides no evidence it is Ichthaid play the role.
In sum, the argument has several logical flaws as discussed above. To improve it, the author should ensure it is really the colds that lead to most absences, and more information needed to show the study's reliability, further more, the author should clarify the two cities are analogous.