Instructions for Self-Quarantine after Possible COVID-19 Exposure
If you had close contact with a person with confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness, or traveled to a country or region of the U.S. with an outbreak or widespread community transmission of COVID-19, you are at higher risk for becoming sick with COVID-19. After such potential exposure to COVID-19 you should stay at home for 14 days and monitor your health.
Close contact is defined as:
- being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters) of a COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time; close contact can occur while caring for, living with, visiting, or sharing a healthcare waiting area or room with a COVID-19 case; -OR-
- having direct contact with infectious secretions of a COVID-19 case (e.g., being coughed on).
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, or shortness of breath. If you develop fever, cough, or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider for advice on evaluation AND call 877-ASK-VDH3 immediately to speak with a public health official.
Take these steps to monitor your health while you stay home:
- Take your temperature with a thermometer two times a day (once in the morning, once in the evening) and monitor for fever. Also watch for cough or trouble breathing.
- If you get sick with fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher), cough, or have trouble breathing, call ahead before you go to a doctor's office or emergency room.
- Before you arrive, tell your doctor about your recent contact or travel and your symptoms.
- If you seek medical care for other reasons, call ahead to your doctor and tell them about your recent contact or travel and symptoms.
- Stay home and avoid contact with others.
- If there are others in your household, try to minimize contact by staying in separate rooms.
- Sleep in separate bedrooms and use separate bathrooms, if available.
- Do not go to work, school, public events, or group gatherings during this period. As soon as you can, discuss your situation with your employer or school. Teleworking or long-distance learning is encouraged if that is an option available for you.
- Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares during the time you are under self-quarantine.
- Avoid all public spaces, public activities,and group gatherings during the time you under self-quarantine.
- Keep your distance from others (about 6 feet or 2 meters).
If you have additional questions about staying home or monitoring your health, please contact your healthcare provider or the local health department.