It’s best to stay home when you’re sick, particularly if you have an array of symptoms such as a sore throat or cough. The CDC advises people to stay home when they are sick for at least 24 hours after a fever before considering coming to work. It’s important to note, however, that cold and flu symptoms often appear the same, but those with the flu won’t usually have a fever. If you’re feeling ill with flu or cold-like symptoms, it’s best to stay home until the symptoms have mostly subsided.