I've come down with a stomach bug and need to head home; I'll leave by [time].
Shift work
Leaving a Shift Early for A stomach bug
Leaving a shift early for a stomach bug is mostly about cover. Tell your supervisor early and line up someone for the rest of the shift.
Say what you need, briefly
A stomach bug can be contagious, so heading home is sensible. Keep it brief and non-graphic; that you're unwell and would rather not spread it is the point.
Sort cover for your shift
On a shift, leaving early hinges on cover. Tell your supervisor as early as you can, and where you can, line up a colleague to cover the rest of your shift so the floor isn't left short.
Example messages
I'm unwell and would rather not risk passing anything on. I'll head out by [time].
Not able to keep working with this bug — I'll log off by [time] and follow up tomorrow.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't leave the floor short without a word. Flag it early and help line up cover for the rest of the shift.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
How much should I say?
Very little. A stomach bug and needing to go home is complete.
What matters most on a shift?
Cover. Tell your supervisor early and, where you can, arrange a colleague to cover the rest of your shift.