Yes, you should call in sick with a sore throat if it's accompanied by fever, cough, fatigue, or pain when swallowing/talking, as these suggest a contagious illness like strep throat or flu; staying home prevents spreading germs and allows for rest, especially if you're in a client-facing role or work with vulnerable people, but if it's just mild allergy symptoms with no other issues, you might be okay to work, though resting is always best if you can.
The simple answer is DO NOT go to work if you have a sore throat. This is especially true if you aren't sure why your throat hurts. A sore throat could mean the presence of an underlying infectious disease.
Usually, a sore throat isn't a serious medical issue. Instead, it's typically an unpleasant sign that you're sick with a cold or the flu. Most sore throats related to a viral infection go away within three to 10 days.
When in doubt, it's often best to stay at home to rest and avoid spreading infections to others. Two days after catching a cold is when symptoms usually begin, and this is the most contagious time, when people are most likely to pass on the cold to someone else.
It's a clear sign that you need to rest. Persistent Cough or Sore Throat: If you're experiencing cold or flu symptoms, especially if they're accompanied by coughing, sneezing, or a sore throat, it's better to stay home and prevent spreading germs.
Calling in sick can induce anxiety for workers who wonder when to call, what to say and how to say it. They may question whether they are truly sick enough to take the day off or worry that missing work will reflect poorly on them.
If your symptoms are mild and above the neck — for example, a runny nose and sore throat — you might be OK to do things like exercise, but work could still be risky if you have contact with other people, as you may be contagious (more on this below).
Appropriate reasons to call in sick include physical illness, mental health concerns, chronic health conditions, caring for a loved one, or recovering from a medical procedure.
Steps
Symptoms like runny nose, body aches, fatigue, fever or nausea are clear signs you need to stay home for the day. When this happens, notify your supervisor as soon as possible about your illness and try to provide an estimate for when you can return.
Stage 1 of a sore throat, often the start of a cold or flu, involves early symptoms like a tickle, scratchiness, or mild pain in the throat, possibly with sneezing, usually appearing 1-3 days after infection, and can be managed with rest, fluids, saltwater gargles, and OTC pain relievers, but see a doctor if it's severe, lasts over a week, or comes with a high fever or trouble breathing.
Stage 1: Days 1–3.
Your body reacts to the introduction of the virus—most commonly the rhinovirus—so you will feel a scratchy throat, body aches and fatigue.
Everyone gets ill now and again, regardless of rank or role, so don't feel bad about calling in sick to work. If you know your ability to function will be hampered by illness, or that you might pass something on to colleagues, then have no hesitation in making that professional call.
“For most people experiencing a sore throat, I generally recommend rest and hydration.
Under the National Employment Standards (NES) and most modern awards, the standard is that employees must notify their employer of an absence “as soon as practicable” and advise the expected period of absence.
It is normal to fall ill, and there is no need to apologize for it or provide an explanation for using a sick day. While it is acceptable to extend an apology for the inconvenience, there is no need to feel guilty using your sick days.
Be honest and direct (but brief)
Example: “I woke up feeling extremely sick and unable to work today. I'll check in later if I'm feeling better, but for now, I need to take a sick day.” If the issue is sensitive—like a mental health matter or family crisis—you can keep it vague while still sounding professional.
Identifying A Pattern Of 'Sickness'
Making note of sick days amongst staff may help employers spot a pattern of sick leave and identify staff members who may need extra support. “Making a note of sick days can identify more serious issues with staff members.
Yes. If you are extremely sleep deprived to the point that you can't function safely or effectively, it's a valid reason to take a sick day. Being awake for 20+ hours impairs you similar to alcohol intoxication.
Stomach Issues (The Classic Safe Bet)
Stomach problems remain the most used and most believable sick day excuse. Why? Because it's hard to argue with. Stomach bugs are common, unpredictable, and usually short-term—making them the perfect excuse for a single day off.
Best:
These symptoms, combined with others like a sore throat, fever and body aches, could mean you have a contagious illness like the flu (influenza), COVID-19 or a common cold. If you're spreading germs, you're not helping anyone. Stay home from work to prevent others from getting sick.
Sore throat can be a symptom of strep throat, the common cold, allergies or other upper respiratory tract illness. Most sore throats will get better on their own within one week. A healthy throat and a sore throat, including uvula and tongue, showing inflamed tonsils.
If you have a sore throat, a cold, or laryngitis, rest your voice. Don't try to talk when you've “lost” your voice, as this may damage your vocal cords. If you must talk, speak in a soft breathy voice.