If you tested positive for COVID-19 or are waiting for test results (regardless of vaccination status, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic):
Ending Isolation: Most people can end isolation after 5 full days (i.e., on Day 6) if asymptomatic, or if fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and other symptoms are improving. Loss of taste and smell may persist for weeks or months and need not delay the end of isolation. If symptoms persist (fever or if other symptoms have not improved), continue to isolate until fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication for 24 hours and other symptoms have improved. Persons with moderate or severe illness and those who have weakened immune systems should isolate for a longer period of time. These persons should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate duration of isolation. After Ending Isolation (i.e., Day 6-10)
Note: If you work in a healthcare setting or live in a high-risk congregate setting, you may be subject to different safety recommendations and timeframes. Case Investigation If you test positive for COVID-19, a New Jersey case investigator may reach out to you with information about how best to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you test positive on an at-home test you should notify your healthcare provider, or local health department if you don't have a healthcare provider, to determine health concerns and address any questions you may have. COVID-19 is mainly spread from person to person, so you will be asked about where you have been and the people you spent time with recently. The case investigator will help you identify any close contacts and advise you to notify them. A close contact is anyone you spent more than 15 minutes with over a 24-hour period and were within six feet. Your close contacts may notify their worksite, school, or daycare, if applicable. Case investigators will also connect you to medical care if needed. NOTE: If you test positive using an at-home self-test, it is recommended that you notify your close contacts as these results may not be reported to local health departments. If you have questions or need assistance, reach out to your primary care provider or local health department. Alerting Friends and Loved Ones In addition to working with case investigators, you should tell anyone you were in close contact with about your positive COVID-19 test result so they can protect themselves and their loved ones. Close contacts should:
For individuals isolating at home, but live in large or multigenerational households, the Department of Health recommends taking the following precautions:
Source: What to do when exposed to COVID-19? |