Food poisoning can hit suddenly and severely, leaving you unable to work for a day or two. The symptoms—nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue—often make it impossible to function effectively, let alone work. If you're struck by food poisoning, it's important to notify your employer immediately, explaining that you’re unwell and unable to come to work. Most employers will understand that food poisoning is unpredictable and debilitating, so taking a sick day is typically accepted without any issues. Depending on the severity, you might recover within 24 hours, but in some cases, food poisoning can last several days. Be sure to communicate with your employer about how long you expect to be out and whether you'll need additional time to recover. If the illness lasts longer than a couple of days, your employer may request a doctor's note, but for short-term illness, this is rarely required. Taking time to rest and hydrate is essential to a quick recovery, and returning to work too soon could lead to a relapse or spread illness to others, so it's best to fully recover before resuming your duties.