Colds: Recognise the symptoms & request a sick note online*

Sore throat, cough, fatigue – a cold can significantly limit us in everyday life. At the same time, it is one of the most common causes of sick leave. In this guide, you will learn how to distinguish a cold from other illnesses, which treatments are useful, and how to request a sick note for a cold online if needed – conveniently via video through TeleClinic.

Abstract

• A cold is a mostly harmless viral infection with typical symptoms such as coughing and a runny nose.
• You can get medical advice from TeleClinic via video consultation and, at the doctor’s discretion, be issued with a sick note.
• As a rule, you may stay at home for up to 3 days without a doctor’s note – from the 4th day onwards, a doctor’s note is required. Please note the individual provisions in your employment contract or collective agreement. The provisions may vary.

What is a cold?

A cold, also known as a flu-like infection, is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses. It typically affects the nose, throat and bronchial tubes and occurs particularly frequently during the cold season. Unlike the actual flu (influenza), it is usually mild and clears up within a few days.

Typical symptoms of a cold

• Sore throat & difficulty swallowing
• Blocked or runny nose
• Dry cough, later also irritating cough
• Headaches & aching limbs
• Slight fever or chills
• Fatigue, exhaustion

Colds, flu or allergies – what is the difference?

Many symptoms are similar, but there are subtle differences:

• Cold: gradual onset, mild symptoms, mainly a runny nose and sore throat
• Influenza: sudden onset, high fever, severe aching limbs and headaches
• Allergy: frequently watery eyes, itching, no aching limbs or fever

Tip: If you are unsure, an online consultation with a doctor can help to quickly clarify the cause of your symptoms – from the comfort of your own home.

How long should you stay at home with a cold?

Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is important to take it easy – both for your own recovery and to avoid infecting colleagues. As a general rule:

• 1–3 days: Rest and home remedies are often sufficient for recovery.
• From day 4: Sick note required if symptoms persist
• If you have a fever: Stay at home until you are fever-free and feeling well again.

From the fourth day of illness at the latest, your employer will require a sick certificate for work (AU). Please check your employment contract or collective agreement for any deviating regulations. You can conveniently request these online from TeleClinic.

Online sick note for colds – how it works

If you feel ill but want to avoid going to the doctor’s office, TeleClinic offers a practical solution: sick leave for colds via video. In a short video call with a doctor, you describe your symptoms. Afterwards, based on the doctor’s assessment, you will receive your sick note digitally via the TeleClinic app.

• Book an appointment online – in just a few minutes
• Video consultation with a doctor – no waiting room
• Digital sick certificate (AU) sent directly to your mobile phone*

For those with statutory health insurance, the costs of treatment at TeleClinic are covered. Those with private health insurance can submit their invoice as usual.

Can I stay at home for three days without a doctor’s note?

Yes. Under German labour law, employees may stay at home for up to three calendar days without a doctor’s note. From the fourth day of illness at the latest, the employer may request a certificate of incapacity for work. Tip: Some employers require a certificate of incapacity for work from the first day – check your employment contract.

Is online sick leave still permitted?

Yes. Since 2023, the digital sick certificate for work (eAU) has been enshrined in law. It may still be issued via video – provided that the medical consultation takes place live and the state of health can be adequately assessed. A sick note without a consultation is not permitted.

Can I go to work with a cold?

Legally, yes – but medically speaking, it is not advisable. Anyone who goes to work when they are ill risks the following:

• Prolonged recovery: The body needs rest to recover.
• Contagion of others: Particularly dangerous for vulnerable colleagues.
• Errors & exhaustion: Lack of concentration can have consequences.

Better: Get a sick note early on, recover from your symptoms – and then return to everyday life feeling stronger.

Frequently asked questions about colds and sick leave

How often can I get a sick note online when I have a cold?

As a rule, a sick note can be issued for up to 3 days per episode of illness. This requires a video consultation. The sick note is issued at the doctor’s discretion.

How much does online sick leave cost?

The service is free of charge for those with statutory health insurance. Those with private health insurance will receive an invoice in accordance with the GOÄ (German Medical Fee Schedule).

Is there such a thing as retroactive sick leave?

No. Retroactive sick leave is not permitted by law. Therefore, the following applies: Make an appointment immediately when the first symptoms appear.

Conclusion: Don’t hesitate if you have a cold – simply get a sick note online.

A cold may seem harmless, but it should be taken seriously. Seeking medical advice early on is good for your body and protects others. With TeleClinic, you can request a sick note for your cold online – it’s easy, secure and stress-free.