What should I do if someone in my household is exposed to COVID-19 or develops symptoms?

If you have a family member or household member who has been exposed to or diagnosed with COVID-19, notify your supervisor as soon as possible. You should also follow the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Watch for symptoms.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath).
  • Stay at home if you have any symptoms.
  • Seek emergency medical care if you experience severe trouble breathing; continuous pain or pressure in your chest; feeling confused; having difficulty waking up or staying awake; pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds; or any other emergency signs or symptoms.
• Create a separate space or room for the person who is ill or has been exposed.
  • The person who is sick or has been exposed should stay in their own room or area away from others, use a separate bathroom, and eat (or be fed) in their separate area, if possible.
  • The person who is sick should limit close contact with others as much as possible (staying at least 6 feet apart) and avoid having any unnecessary visitors, especially visits by people who are at higher risk.
  • Make sure shared spaces have good airflow by opening a window and turning on a fan to increase air circulation.
• Keep surfaces disinfected and avoid sharing personal items.
  • Wash dishes and utensils with soap and hot water while using gloves.
  • Do not share dishes, cups/glasses, silverware, towels, bedding, or electronics (like a cell phone) with the person who is sick.
  • Clean and disinfect “high-touch” surfaces and items every day (such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, and electronics).

If you or a member of your household has been infected with COVID-19, please follow up with your employer regarding schedule changes.