When You Can be Around Others After You Had or Likely Had COVID-19

May 27, 2020

Here are some great tips from the CDC if you are feeling sick or have been around anyone that is feeling ill. Always contact a healthcare provider or health department for more specific direction as each case and recommendation may vary depending on the circumstances.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/end-home-isolation.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM29085

I think or know I had COVID-19, and I had symptoms

You can be with others after

• 3 days with no fever and
• Symptoms improved and
• 10 days since symptoms first appeared

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Depending on your healthcare provider’s advice and availability of testing, you might get tested to see if you still have COVID-19. If you will be tested, you can be around others when you have no fever, symptoms have improved, and you receive two negative test results in a row, at least 24 hours apart.

I tested positive for COVID-19 but had no symptoms

If you continue to have no symptoms, you can be with others after:

• 10 days have passed since test

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Depending on your healthcare provider’s advice and availability of testing, you might get tested to see if you still have COVID-19. If you will be tested, you can be around others after you receive two negative test results in a row, at least 24 hours apart.

If you develop symptoms after testing positive, follow the guidance above for “I think or know I had COVID, and I had symptoms.”

I have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised) due to a health condition or medication. When can I be around others?

People with conditions that weaken their immune system might need to stay home longer than 10 days. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information.  If testing is available in your community, it may be recommended by your healthcare provider.  You can be with others after you receive two negative test results in a row, at least 24 hours apart.

If testing is not available in your area, your doctor should work with an infectious disease expert at your local health department to determine if you are likely to spread COVID-19 to others and need to stay home longer.

For Anyone Who Has Been Around a Person with COVID-19

It is important to remember that anyone who has close contact with someone with COVID-19 should stay home for 14 days after exposure based on the time it takes to develop illness.