Returning from mat leave and sick - confusing!

[MrsTeddy]

I am scheduled to return to work after maternity leave next Tuesday. I have given notice, had confirmation of end of maternity leave date from work, etc. I am returning (just) before the end of my OML. However, I have literally just started an outbreak of shingles, it's a really bad one and I feel really ill.

I am going to take anti-virals which usually help but am worried I might not be well enough to go in to work on Tuesday. Does anyone know whether my maternity leave continues or this will be treated as "normal" sick leave? I've tried to look it up but all the advice seems to deal with circumstances where people are still on mat leave, or on AML, and I'm not sure if the position is different as I am still within my OML period.

Not sure if it will make any practical difference how its treated but I'd like to try and work it out before I speak to HR, at least so I know whether I need a sick note or not.

Thanks in advance

[Rockchick1984]

It will be treated as normal sick leave and should be paid as such.

[MrsTeddy]

Thanks, sick note it is then!