COVID-19 Self-Isolation Guidelines
Preventing others from contracting the virus
If you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect that you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, you must self-isolate and monitor symptoms for up to 2 weeks.
What is self-isolation?
Isolation separates people who are sick with COVID-19 from those who are not. This prevents others from contracting the virus, getting sick, or even dying.
When can I end self-isolation?
- You can end isolation after 5 full days if you are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and your other symptoms have improved (Loss of taste and smell may persist for weeks or months after recovery and need not delay the end of isolation).
- You should continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others at home and in public for 5 additional days (day 6 through day 10) after the end of your 5-day isolation period. If you are unable to wear a mask when around others, you should continue to isolate for a full 10 days. Avoid people who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease, and nursing homes and other high-risk settings, until after at least 10 days.
OR
- if advised to do so by your medical provider
How do I self-isolate?
STAY HOME Accordion Closed
- Stay home except to get medical care.
- Do not go to work, school, church, events, parties, or gatherings-regardless of size.
- Do not go to stores or any public areas.
- Do not use taxis, rideshares, or public transportation until you’ve been released from isolation.
- Ask friends or family to drop off groceries and supplies or use a delivery service.
- Ask a friend to run errands for you.
Separate yourself from others in your home Accordion Closed
- Avoid situations where you may have close contact with other people living in your home.
- Stay in your own separate room, preferably one that is well ventilated (with windows open, if possible) with the door closed.
- Do not allow others to enter the room while you are in it.
- Use a separate bathroom/toilet, if possible. Clean the bathroom/toilet after every use with disinfectant.
- Do not share utensils, towels, bedding, pillows, plates, etc. with other people.
- Wash all used dishes/utensils with soap and water or use a dishwasher.
No visitors Allowed Accordion Closed
- Do not invite visitors, friends, or family to your home.
- Do not make contact with people at the front door-deliveries should be left at the door. Wait to open the door once the delivery person has left.
Wash your hands often Accordion Closed
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands, then rub them together until dry.
- Wash hands after sneezing/coughing, before and after preparing food, before eating, after using the restroom, and when your hands are visibly dirty.
Practice prevention measures Accordion Closed
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Use a TISSUE, not your hands.
- Frequently clean surfaces that are shared with others in your household (doorknobs, bathroom surfaces, handles, light switches, etc.). Use a household disinfectant such as bleach, Clorox, or Lysol.
Wear a face mask Accordion Closed
- You should always wear a face mask if you have to be around others or pets in your household.
- You should also wear a mask if you have to seek medical care.
Separate yourself from animals in your home Accordion Closed
- Do not handle pets while sick.
- When possible, have another household member care for your pet while you are sick.
- If you must care for your pet while sick, wash your hands before and after interacting with pets and wear a face mask.
- More information at CDC: https//www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/pets.html
Monitor your symptoms
- Seek prompt medical attention if your illness worsens or if you develop shortness of breath
- Before seeking medical care:
- contact your medical provider and let them know you are being evaluated for COVID-19
- put on a face mask before entering a healthcare facility
- Seek emergency care if you develop the following symptoms:
- trouble breathing
- persistent pain or pressure in chest
- new confusion
- inability to wake or stay awake
- bluish lips or face
- If you develop emergency symptoms, contact 911. Let them know you are being evaluated for COVID-19 and put on a face mask before they arrive.
Resources
- Campus Health Medical Services: (928)523-2131
- Emergency Medical Assistance: 911
- Flagstaff Medical Center Emergency Department: (928) 773-2113
Self-isolation and mental health
Self-isolation can be difficult.
When possible, stay connected with friends and loved ones using technology.
For help with your mental health needs, call Counseling Services at (928) 523-2131.