Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], I've come down with a fever and need to rest at home; I'll leave by [time]. Thanks, [Name].
By email
How to Email Your Boss About A fever
When your workplace expects things in writing, a short email about a fever keeps a clear record. Put the key facts up front.
Say what you need, briefly
A fever leaves you unfit to work and often contagious. Say you've come down with a fever and need to rest; no thermometer reading required.
Structure it as a short email
In an email, lead with a plain subject line, put the day and leaving time in the first line, add one line on how your work is covered, and keep a courteous sign-off. An email should be shorter than a chat message, not longer.
Example messages
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], I'm running a fever and would rather not risk passing it on. I'll head out by [time]. Thanks, [Name].
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], Feverish and can't focus — I'll log off by [time] and catch up once I'm back on my feet. Thanks, [Name].
Mistakes to avoid
Don't write a long paragraph or bury the ask. Put the day and leaving time in the first line so it's seen at a glance.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
Do I have to give my temperature?
No. A fever and needing to rest is a complete reason.
Email or a quick message?
Use email where a written record is expected; a chat message is fine elsewhere.