Quarantine & Isolation - Next Steps

Quarantine or Isolation: What's the difference?

• Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick
• Isolation  separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick, even in their home.

Portage County Health District Quarantine Press Release

Next Steps After Getting Tested

While Waiting for Your COVID-19 Test Results Factsheet

• To help stop the spread of COVID-19, take these key steps now while waiting for your test results

I Tested Positive

If you tested positive for COVID-19, you should not wait to hear from the health department and immediately follow the guidance as described.

• Tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive. By letting your close contacts know they may have been exposed to COVID-19, you are helping to protect everyone. 

What to Do if You Are Sick

• More information is available on the CDC’s website on the steps to take to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and what to do if you are sick.

I Am A Close Contact

Individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 must quarantine for one full incubation period (14 days) from the date of last contact. Individuals in quarantine should stay home, separate from others, monitor their health, and follow all instructions from their local health department.

If you’re isolated or quarantined...

Ohio Department of Health strongly recommends that people who are isolated or quarantined take the following actions:

• Keep your distance. Stay in your bedroom and use a bathroom separate from the one used by other members of your household, if possible. Wear a face mask when around others and try to stay at least 6 feet away. Have someone else in the home prepare meals and leave them outside your bedroom door. Don’t share bedding, towels, dishes, or water bottles with others. If something is shared, wash it with soap and water before each use by a separate person. 
• Do not leave your home (unless necessary for medical care). Ask family, friends, or community groups to help with needs by leaving supplies outside your door. 
• Do not allow visitors to your home. 
• Wipe down high-touch areas every day with a disinfectant. This includes doorknobs; light switches; phones; remote controls; appliance, sink, toilet, and cabinet handles; countertops, etc. 
• Limit contact with pets. If you do interact with pets, wash your hands before and after.