How long to quarantine after positive covid test with symptoms

In the midst of a pandemic, many individuals find themselves grappling with uncertainty when faced with a positive COVID-19 test, especially when symptoms have begun to emerge. Perhaps you’ve just woken up with a sore throat and a cough, and the fatigue is undeniable. After testing positive, the immediate concern is not just for your own health but also for the well-being of those around you. You want to do the right thing, prevent further spread, and understand the guidelines for how long you should remain in quarantine.

The recommended quarantine period is at least 5 days from the onset of symptoms or the positive test result, followed by additional precautions until symptoms improve and you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

When you test positive for COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to isolate yourself for at least 5 days. This timeframe begins from either the first day you notice symptoms or the day you received your positive test result–whichever comes first. During these 5 days, you should closely monitor your symptoms and avoid contact with others. After the initial 5-day period, if your symptoms are improving and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without using fever-reducing medications), you can end your isolation, but you should continue to wear a mask around others for an additional 5 days to minimize the risk of transmission. If your symptoms persist or worsen after the 5-day mark, it’s advisable to continue isolating and consult a healthcare provider for further guidance. It’s important to stay informed and follow current public health recommendations, as guidelines can evolve with new information about the virus.