When is it Safe to End Covid-19 Home Isolation?
People with COVID-19 or its symptoms who:
- are recovering at home (or other non-hospital setting), and
- will not be tested to determine if they are no longer contagious
can leave their “sick room” and home when:
- They have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever) without the use of medicine that reduces fevers
AND - Other symptoms have improved (for example, when their cough or shortness of breath have improved)
AND - At least 7 days have passed since their symptoms first appeared
People with COVID-19 or its symptoms who:
- are recovering at home (or other non-hospital setting), and
- will be tested to determine if they are no longer contagious
can leave their “sick room” and home when:
- They no longer have a fever (without the use of medicine that reduces fevers)
AND
- Other symptoms have improved (for example, when their cough or shortness of breath have improved)
AND - They received two negative tests in a row, 24 hours apart
People who DID NOT have COVID-19 symptoms, but tested positive who:
- are self-isolating at home (or other non-hospital setting)
can leave their “sick room” and home when:
- At least 7 days have passed since the date of the first positive test
AND
- They continue to have no symptoms (no cough or shortness of breath) since the test
For 3 more days, this group of people should continue to limit contact (stay 6 feet or more away from others) and wear a face covering for their nose and mouth when other people are present (including at home).
For ALL people
- When leaving the home, keep a distance of 6 feet from others and wear a cloth face covering when around other people.
Follow guidance provided by the healthcare provider and local health department. The decision to stop home isolation will be made in consultation with their healthcare provider and state and local health departments. Local decisions depend on local circumstances.