Self-Isolation
Self-isolation is for individuals who have a confirmed case of COVID-19,
and must separate themselves from others to prevent the spread of the illness.
If you have a confirmed case of COVID-19, it is important that you monitor
your symptoms carefully. Most people with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms
and do not need medical care. However, if your symptoms get worse (especially
if you have high fever or difficulty breathing), call your primary care
provider to report your symptoms and receive guidance. If you need to
go to the Emergency Department, please call ahead to explain that you
are positive for COVID-19 so that the team is prepared to safely treat
you and the others in the facility.
If in self-isolation:
-
Stay home. This means do not go to work, school, or public areas. If you
need medical care, it is important you follow the instructions above.
While at home separate yourself from other people in your home. As much
as possible, you should stay in one specific room and away from other
people in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available.
- COVID-19 is spread by droplet (being within about 6 feet of someone who
is coughing or sneezing).
-
COVID-19 can also be spread by touching items contaminated with the virus
and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Examples of items that may
be contaminated in the home include:
- Surfaces that have been sneezed on
- Surfaces that ill individuals touched after blowing their nose or sneezing
or coughing into their hands
- Used tissues used to blow the nose
- Avoid sharing personal household items. You should not share dishes, drinking
glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels or bedding with other people in
your home. After using these items, they should be washed thoroughly with
soap and water. Wash your hands often and practice good hygiene.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze, then
discard into a lined waste container.
- Postpone all non-urgent medical appointments until you are out of isolation.
If you have an essential appointment during the isolation period, please
tell your health providers so they can help coordinate the visit.
Isolation May Be Discontinued When:
You are free of fever, productive cough and other acute symptoms of respiratory
infection for 72 hours,
AND 7 days have passed from the day the you first experienced symptoms.