The isolation period calculation depends on whether you have symptoms or not, and when you tested positive for COVID-19. Generally, you isolate for at least 5 days.
Isolation Period Calculation
Here's a breakdown of how to calculate your isolation period:
-
If you test positive but have no symptoms:
- Day 0 is the date you took the positive test.
- Isolate for at least 5 days from Day 0.
- If you develop symptoms during isolation, follow the guidance below for symptomatic cases.
-
If you test positive and have symptoms:
- Day 0 is the day your symptoms started.
- Isolate for at least 5 days from Day 0.
Important Considerations After the 5-Day Isolation Period:
Regardless of whether you had symptoms or not:
- After 5 days: If you are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and your other symptoms are improving, you may end isolation.
- Continue to take precautions: Even after ending isolation, it's crucial to continue taking precautions for the next 5 days, such as wearing a high-quality mask (e.g., N95 or KN95) when around others, especially indoors.
- If symptoms worsen: If your symptoms worsen after ending isolation, resume isolating until you are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and your other symptoms are improving. Consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
- Consult Local Guidelines: Consult with your local health authorities for up-to-date and specific isolation guidelines as recommendations can vary.
Example Scenario:
Let's say you started experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (sore throat, cough) on Tuesday, October 29th.
- Day 0: Tuesday, October 29th (first day of symptoms)
- Day 1: Wednesday, October 30th
- Day 2: Thursday, October 31st
- Day 3: Friday, November 1st
- Day 4: Saturday, November 2nd
- Day 5: Sunday, November 3rd
If your fever has resolved and your symptoms are improving by Sunday, November 3rd, you can end isolation on Monday, November 4th, but should continue to wear a mask for the next 5 days.
In summary, calculate your isolation period starting from the day of your positive test (if asymptomatic) or the day your symptoms began (if symptomatic), and isolate for at least 5 days. Always follow up with precautionary measures like masking.
