What’s the difference between self-isolation and self-quarantine?
  • Self-isolation practices are for individuals who test positive for COVID-19
  • Self-quarantine practices are for individuals who are in close contact with individuals who test positive for COVID-19

Self-Isolation

  • Self-isolation includes separating yourself from the public as well as other people within your home
  • Specify a "sick room" and bathroom if possible in which only the sick person will use
  • Stay away from other people in your home
  • Avoid sharing personal household items
    • Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, utensils, towels, or bedding with others
    • Wash all of these items thoroughly with soap and water or put them in the dishwasher/washing machine
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
    • This is especially important after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food
  • Clean all "high touch" surfaces in your isolation area every day
    • Let a caregiver clean and disinfect other areas of the home
    • High-touch surfaces include phones, remote controls, counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables
  • Do not leave your home unless for necessary medical care related to your COVID-19 symptoms
    • If you must leave your home, wear a facemask if available. The CDC notes that you may need to improvise a facemask using a scarf or bandana
  • Restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, 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 sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the new coronavirus

Self-Quarantine

  • Self-quarantine involves separating yourself from the public and remaining within your home
  • Do not leave your home unless for necessary medical care
  • You may continue to be with others within your household but continue to practice good hygiene and cleaning practices
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
    • This is especially important after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food

When does self-isolation or quarantine end?

Isolation or quarantine ends once a public health nurse has deemed it possible following strict CDC guidelines that are based on time and symptoms

Show All Answers

1. What are the reopening plans for Dartmouth businesses and organizations?
2. Who are at greater risk for severe COVID-19 illness?
3. What should I do if I feel sick?
4. When can my business reopen?
5. What are my rights as an employee during COVID-19?
6. Where can I get help for unemployment?
7. How are Governor Baker’s orders, home isolation, & social distancing guidelines being enforced in the Town of Dartmouth?
8. What’s the difference between self-isolation and self-quarantine?
9. What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 / am in close contact of someone who tests positive?