The novel coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live our lives. With the virus being spread rapidly, people are taking extra precautions to stay safe and healthy. One of the recommended practices is quarantining if you have tested positive for COVID-19. But how long should someone quarantine after testing positive?
The CDC Guidelines for Quarantine After Testing Positive for COVID-19
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 stay home and away from others for at least 10 days after the date of their positive test. During this time, it is important to monitor your symptoms and take steps to prevent the spread of the virus. This means that if you test positive, you should stay home, away from other people and animals, and avoid contact with anyone outside of your household.
The CDC also recommends that any close contacts of a person who tests positive for COVID-19 should quarantine for 14 days. This means that those who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive should stay home and away from others for 14 days, even if they do not show any symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
COVID-19 can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Other symptoms may include chills, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
What Should I Do During Quarantine?
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or are quarantining due to close contact with someone who has tested positive, it is important to do the following to help prevent the spread of the virus:
- Stay home and limit contact with other people, including those in your own household.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your mouth and nose when around other people.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Monitor your symptoms and contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen.
When Can I End My Quarantine?
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you can end your quarantine 10 days after the date of your positive test and if you do not have a fever or other symptoms. If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, you can end your quarantine 14 days after your last contact with them. It is important to follow the guidelines of your local health department and healthcare provider to be sure you are taking the right steps to keep yourself and others safe.
What Should I Do After Quarantine?
After ending your quarantine, it is important to continue to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes washing your hands often, wearing a face covering when around others, avoiding contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you are feeling ill. You should also continue to monitor your symptoms and contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen.
Conclusion
The novel coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live our lives. Quarantining after testing positive for COVID-19 is an important step to help prevent the spread of the virus. The CDC recommends that those who test positive stay home and away from others for at least 10 days after the date of their positive test. Those who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive should quarantine for 14 days. It is important to follow the guidelines of your local health department and healthcare provider to be sure you are taking the right steps to keep yourself and others safe.