'Tis to season to be jolly - it's also the season for colds, coughs, flu and, of course, increases in Covid-19 infections.
So if you are struck down with something nasty you'll need to know the rules on sick notes.
Think you know them? Well, as of Friday, December 10, 2021 the rules have changed.
If you go off sick from work now, and have to claim Statutory Sick Pay, your employer can only ask you for proof of sickness (such as a fit note) after 28 days of illness (including non-working days), according to the Government website.
Doctors issue fit notes to people to provide evidence of the advice they have given about their fitness for work.
As of December 10, this year, proof of sickness cannot be requested earlier than 28 days.
The change to the rules is designed to help give GPs more time to work on the Coronavirus booster programme.
However, this is only a temporary change and there is no guidance as to when the rules will change again.
Fit notes do not have to be provided for DWP benefit claims until Thursday, January 27. This will not affect claims to benefit.
Government advice continues to be that if you are concerned about your health condition, you should continue to see your GP.
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