COVID-19 and its variants continue to be a health issue. Please take a moment to read about the latest CDC recommendations for anyone exposed to COVID-19 as well as precautions to take if you test positive.
What to Do If You Were Exposed to COVID-19
If you were exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 or have been told by a healthcare provider or public health authority that you were exposed, there are steps that you should take, regardless of your vaccination status or if you have had a previous infection.
Steps include:
- Watch for symptoms for 10 days
- Wear a mask around others indoors for 10 days
- Test 5 days after exposure, or sooner if you have symptoms
- If you test positive, follow isolation guidance
- Take extra precautions for 10 days when around people more likely to get very sick
Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19
If you have COVID-19, you can spread the virus to others. Regardless of vaccination status, you should isolate from others. You should also isolate if you are sick and suspect that you have COVID-19 but do not yet have test results.
If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home. You are likely most infectious during these first 5 days.
- Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public.
- Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask.
- Do not travel.
- Stay home and separate from others as much as possible.
- Use a separate bathroom, if possible.
- Take steps to improve ventilation at home, if possible.
- Don’t share personal household items, like cups, towels, and utensils.
- Monitor your symptoms. If you have an emergency warning sign (like trouble breathing), seek emergency medical care immediately.