Quarantine and Isolation

Isolation is a time for people who have symptoms of COVID-19 or who have tested positive for COVID-19 to stay away from others because they are contagious. However, people can begin being contagious up to 2 days before they notice symptoms. During that time, people can be spreading COVID-19 without even realizing they have it. Because of that, people should also quarantine after they have been exposed. Quarantine is a time for people who have been exposed to stay away from others in case they get sick, to prevent unknowingly spreading the virus.

If you have been asked to quarantine or isolate, or know that you need to based on symptoms or exposure, you should stay home, stay at least 6 feet away from others, and monitor for symptoms. You should not go out in public, and you are not allowed to come to campus.

Quarantine typically lasts 10 days from the date of last exposure, with return to campus permitted on the 11th day. Should you choose to get tested for COVID-19, and if the test was taken five or more days from the date of last exposure and results negative, you may be eligible to release early and return to campus on the 8th day. Your contact tracer will work with you to determine the dates.

Isolation typically lasts 10 days from the day you began experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, with return to campus permitted on the 11th day. If you are COVID-19 positive and have unresolved or worsening symptoms you may be asked to extend your isolation period. If you test negative for COVID-19, you may end your isolation when your symptoms are improving. Your contact tracer will work with you to determine the dates.

This depends on the symptom and the severity of the symptom. Inform your Contact Tracer of your symptoms and they will work with you to determine the best solution. A nurse from University Health Services may also reach out to you to provide medical advice.