Self-isolation is when you are not leaving home or not going out because you might have coronavirus. Being isolated help stop the spread of the virus to other people. Self-isolation is different from:
- Shielding – this is an advice for people who are at high risk from the coronavirus disease
- Social distancing – this is advice for each one of us to avoid close contact with other people
When To Self-Isolate
Self-isolate right away if:
- You have any symptoms of the infection or disease
- You have been tested positive for the coronavirus
- You are in the same household with someone who has symptoms or tested positive for coronavirus disease
If you think you have been in close contact with an individual who has coronavirus but you haven’t been told to isolate and don’t have any symptoms, strictly follow social distancing protocol.
How To Self-Isolate
You should not leave home if you are in a self-isolation.
- Go to school, work, or public places
- Use taxis or go on public transport
- Go out medicine or food. You can order it by phone or online, or you can ask someone to bring it to your home
- Accept visitors in your home except for people that provide essential care
- Go out for exercise. You can do it at home or in your garden if you have one
When To Get A Test
Get as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of coronavirus disease. The symptoms of the disease may include:
- High temperature
- Loss or change to your sense of taste or smell
- New or continuous cough
The test needs to be done in the first 8 days of having these symptoms. A test should not be done of you did not experience any of these symptoms while self-isolating.
How Long To Self-Isolate
- If you have symptoms and tested positive
If you have tested positive and have symptoms, you will need to self-isolate for at least 14 days. Stop isolating after 14 days if you do not have any symptoms. You just have a cough or a change to your sense of taste or smell. These can last for weeks after the infection has gone. If you feel that there are still symptoms after 14 days, keep isolating and contact your local health authorities.
- If you live someone who has symptoms or tested positive
You should self-isolate for 14 days if you live with someone who has coronavirus disease. If you do not get any symptoms after 14 days, stop self-isolating. If you do develop symptoms, call your local health authorities, and get tested.
If Symptoms Get Worse
It is very important to get emergency medical help if your symptoms get worse. Call for medical help right away if:
- Are coughing up blood
- You are struggling to breathe
- You have blue lips
- You feel sweaty and cold
- You have a rash that doesn’t fade away
- You faint or collapse
- You become very drowsy or confused
- You are peeing much less than usual or have stopped peeing