Facts and information about the coronavirus pandemic are constantly changing. Visit the CDC site for the most up-to-date information during the COVID-19 outbreak.
You tested positive for COVID-19, or you were exposed to coronavirus and developed symptoms of COVID-19. You responsibly decided to stay at home and isolate so that you did not expose anyone else to the virus. Maybe you isolated yourself away from other family members in your own home. When is it safe to be around others after you have COVID-19?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers guidance for those who are in isolation after getting sick from COVID-19.
You think or know that you had COVID-19, and had symptoms.
According to the CDC, you can be around others if all of the following are true:
- It’s been 10 days since you first developed symptoms.
- It’s been 24 hours since you have had a fever (without fever-reducing medication).
- Your symptoms have improved.
Remember, the CDC still recommends a 14-day quarantine for exposure to COVID-19.
You tested positive for COVID-19, but did not have symptoms.
The CDC states that asymptomatic individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 can be around others 10 days after the date of the positive test.
You have a weakened immune system, or you had a severe illness because of COVID-19.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you had COVID-19 and you have a weakened immune system, or if you were admitted to the hospital for COVID-19.
Your doctor may recommend an extended period of isolation for those with severe illness from COVID-19, or those who are immunocompromised.
As always, you can contact your physician’s office any time that you have questions about your health.
Help ensure a safe return
We have similar recommendations from different health authorities — such as the CDC, WHO, and ADH — to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Wear a reusable face covering (mask).
- Maintain physical distance between yourself and others.
- Wash your hands frequently.
These recommendations are based on research and what we know about SARS-CoV-2. Doing things like wearing a mask, staying six feet apart, and washing your hands help prevent the spread of coronavirus and COVID-19.
These recommendations aren’t just for the people who are sick. Everyone should do these simple things, whether you think that you’re healthy or you know that you were sick in the past.
