Feeling sick? How to self-isolate

Now that we’re seeing COVID-19 transmission in our community, it’s important to know what we should do when we get sick. On top of taking care of ourselves, or a sick family member, there are certain symptoms to watch for, and simple tasks we can do at home to prevent spreading COVID-19 to others.

If you develop COVID-19 or have been exposed to the virus, you will be asked to self-isolate.

In some people, COVID-19 is mild enough that you can safely recover at home. But you need to protect other people at the same time. If your doctor or local health department asks you to self-isolate, here’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says to do:

Don’t leave home except to get medical care. Staying home means no activities at work, school or any other public places. Don’t use taxis, ride-sharing or public transportation either. Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Be sure to get care if you feel worse or you think it is an emergency.

Keep away from people and pets at home. You need to keep a safe distance (at least 6 feet) from others. If you can, restrict yourself to a sick room and try to use a separate bathroom from others. You should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people with the virus limit contact with animals until more information is known.

Know when to use a face mask. If you’re sick, you should wear a face mask whenever you can’t avoid being around other people or pets. You’ll also need one if you’re told to come to a hospital or doctor’s office. Ask your doctor how to get face masks.

Cover your coughs. When you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and throw it in the trash. Then wash your hands right away.

Clean your hands often. This is an important habit to keep up, even if you already have COVID-19. Use soap and water and wash for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have soap and water, a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol will work, but make sure to rub your hands together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Clean high-touch surfaces. Objects that you and others touch often need to be disinfected daily. That includes things like counters, tables, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, computers, remotes and bedside tables. Most household disinfectants should work. Read and follow the instructions on the label.

Stay home until you get the green light. People with COVID-19 must remain at home until their doctors have determined it’s safe to go back out. The timing may not be the same for everyone. So try to be patient, and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Remember, playing by these rules helps keep everyone in your community safer. And that may save lives.

While COVID-19 is making waves worldwide, in most cases it is manageable at home — much like the flu. You can find the information from this article as well as the latest updates and ways to protect yourself at cdc.gov/covid19.

Is it an emergency?

If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include*:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest

• New confusion or inability to arouse

• Bluish lips or face

*This list is not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.