Do You Still Need a Sick Note for COVID in BC? (2026 Update)
COVID policies have evolved significantly. Here's what BC workers need to know about sick notes for COVID in 2026.
## Do You Still Need a Sick Note for COVID in BC? (2026)
COVID-19 is now treated similarly to other respiratory illnesses in BC. The emergency-era rules have ended, but you still have rights when you're sick.
### Current BC Guidelines (2026)
- **No mandatory isolation period** — but you should stay home while symptomatic
- **Standard sick leave rules apply** — 5 paid days, 3 unpaid days under the ESA
- **No special COVID sick leave** — the pandemic-era provisions have expired
- **Employer policies vary** — some still have COVID-specific protocols
### When You Need a Sick Note for COVID
You'll likely need documentation if:
- You're off for more than 3 consecutive days
- Your employer has a specific COVID return-to-work policy
- You work in healthcare, long-term care, or food service
- You need to extend your absence beyond initial expectations
### What About Long COVID?
If you're experiencing ongoing symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, breathing difficulties):
- You may qualify for **extended sick leave** or **disability benefits**
- You should document your condition with medical notes
- You may be entitled to **workplace accommodations** under the BC Human Rights Code
### How MedLetter Helps
If you have COVID and need a sick note, visiting a clinic means potentially exposing others. MedLetter provides online documentation from CPSBC physicians — keeping you and others safe.
**Get a COVID sick note — [Start here](/get-started/sick_note)**