When to self-isolate

What is self-isolation?

SELF-ISOLATION is when you do not leave your home because you have or might have Covid-19.

This helps stop the virus spreading to other people.

What is the difference between quarantine, self-isolation and distancing?

◆ Quarantine means restricting activities or separating people who are not ill themselves but may have been exposed to Covid-19. The goal is to prevent spread of the disease at the time when people just develop symptoms..

◆ Isolation means separating people who are ill with symptoms of Covid-19 and may be infectious to prevent the spread of the disease.

◆ Physical distancing means being physically apart. World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends keeping at least One metre distance from others. This is a general measure that everyone should take even if they are well with no known exposure to Covid-19.

How long should people with Covid-19 stay at home and in isolation?

People with Covid-19 who are cared for at home should stay in isolation until they are no longer able to transmit the virus to others:

◆ Those with symptoms should stay isolated for a minimum of 10 days after the first day they developed symptoms, plus another three days after the end of symptoms — when they are without fever and without respiratory symptoms.

◆ People without symptoms should stay isolated for a minimum of 10 days after testing positive.

When to self-isolate

Self-isolate immediately if:

◆ You have any symptoms of coronavirus (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)

◆ You have tested positive for coronavirus — this means you have coronavirus

◆ You live with someone who has symptoms or tested positive

◆ Someone in your support bubble has symptoms or tested positive

What is a support bubble?

If you think you have been in contact with someone who has coronavirus, but you do not have symptoms and have not been told to self-isolate, continue to follow social distancing advice.

How to self-isolate

You must not leave your home if you are self-isolating.

Don’t

◆ Do not go to work, school or public places – work from home if you can

◆ Do not go on public transport or use taxis

◆ Do not go out to get food and medicine – order it online or by phone, or ask someone to bring it to your home

◆ Do not have visitors in your home, including friends and family — except for people providing essential care

◆ Do not go out to exercise — exercise at home or in your garden, if you have one

When to get a test

Get a test as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of coronavirus.

The symptoms are:

◆ a high temperature