I tested positive for COVID-19 and had symptoms. When can I end my isolation?

If you tested positive for COVID-19 and had symptoms, you should isolate for at least 5 days. To calculate your 5-day isolation period, day 0 is your first day of symptoms. Day 1 is the first full day after your symptoms developed. You can leave isolation after 5 full days without a test if:

• You are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication)
• Your symptoms are improving

If you still have fever or your other symptoms have not improved, continue to isolate until they improve.

If you had moderate illness  (shortness of breath or difficulty breathing), severe illness (hospitalization), or have a weakened immune system, you need to isolate through day 10.

If you had severe illness or have a weakened immune system, consult your doctor before ending isolation to see if you may need to have a viral test first..

If you are unsure if your symptoms are moderate or severe or if you have a weakened immune system, talk to a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Removing your mask:

Regardless of when you end isolation, wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when you are around others through day 10. If you have access to antigen tests, you may remove your mask sooner than day 10 if you have 2 sequential negative tests 48 hours apart.

If your antigen results are positive, you may still be infectious. You should continue wearing a mask and wait at least 48 hours before taking another test. Continue taking antigen tests at least 48 hours apart until you have two sequential negative results. This may mean you need to continue wearing a mask and testing beyond day 10.