Do You Always Need a Sick Note for Cold, Flu or COVID?

No — most people in the UK do not need a sick note for short-term illness such as a cold, flu, or COVID.

UK rules are clear:

● You can self-certify sickness for up to 7 calendar days

● This includes weekends and non-working days

● Employers should not ask for a sick note during this period

Only if your illness lasts longer than 7 days will you usually need a medical certificate (fit note).

What Is Self-Certification?

Self-certification means you tell your employer you are unwell without providing medical evidence.

This applies to:

● Common colds

● Influenza (flu)

● COVID-19

● Short-term viral infections

You may be asked to:

● Fill out a company sickness form, or

●  Confirm dates of illness verbally or by email 

This system exists to reduce pressure on GP services and prevent unnecessary appointments.

When Does a Cold or Flu Require a Sick Note?

You only need a sick note if:

● Your symptoms last more than 7 calendar days, or

● Your employer requires evidence after the self-certification period

For example:

● A flu lasting 3–5 days → no sick note needed

● A flu lasting 10 days → sick note required from day 8

Severity does not matter legally — duration does.

COVID-19 and Sick Notes: What Changed?

During the pandemic, special rules applied. In 2026, COVID is treated the same as other illnesses.

This means:

● Self-certification still applies for the first 7 days

● A sick note is only needed if illness continues beyond that

● Isolation alone does not automatically require a sick note

If COVID symptoms are mild and short-lived, no medical evidence is required.

Can an Employer Ask for a Sick Note Earlier?

In most cases, no. Employers:

● Should not request a sick note before day 8

● Cannot force you to see a GP unnecessarily

● Must follow statutory guidance

Some workplaces have internal policies, but these cannot override UK employment law. If an employer repeatedly demands early sick notes, this may raise compliance concerns.

What If Your Symptoms Are Severe?

If symptoms are severe but short-term (e.g. high fever for 3 days), the rule is the same:

● No sick note required within 7 days

However, if symptoms:

● Prevent you returning to work safely

● Persist beyond a week

● Fluctuate or relapse

A doctor may issue a sick note covering recovery or phased return.

How Long Are Sick Notes Usually Issued For?

For viral illnesses:

● 1–2 weeks is common

● Longer periods may be issued if complications occur

A sick note may state:

● “Not fit for work”, or

● “May be fit for work” with adjustments (reduced hours, remote work)

Employers should consider these recommendations seriously.

Can You Get a Sick Note Online for Cold, Flu or COVID?

Yes — remote assessment is appropriate for many viral illnesses. If symptoms:

● Are typical

● Do not require physical examination

● Are clearly described

A UK-registered doctor can assess you safely online.

Services like Dr Sicks allow patients to be assessed without unnecessary GP appointments, particularly during winter pressure periods.

When Online Sick Notes Are Not Appropriate

You should seek urgent or in-person care if you have:

● Chest pain

● Shortness of breath

● Confusion or collapse

● Very high or persistent fever

● Worsening symptoms after initial recovery

A legitimate service will refuse to issue a sick note and direct you to urgent care where appropriate.

Will My Employer Accept a Sick Note for Flu or COVID?

Yes, provided it:

● Comes from a registered medical professional

● Covers the correct dates

● Is medically justified

Employers:

● Cannot reject a sick note based on diagnosis

● Cannot ask for medical details

● Cannot discriminate based on illness type

Key Takeaways

● You do not need a sick note for the first 7 days

● Cold, flu and COVID follow the same rules

● Duration matters more than severity

● Sick notes are only required from day 8

● Online sick notes are valid when issued properly

Need a Sick Note After 7 Days?

If your illness hasn’t resolved and you need medical certification, a legitimate online assessment can save time and reduce stress — especially during peak winter illness periods.

Always choose a service that prioritises medical judgment, not automatic approval.