What should I do if I have COVID? Can I go out while recovering?

Stay Home and Isolate

When you test positive for COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home and isolate yourself from others. This means you should not go to work, school, or public places. Isolation helps prevent the virus from spreading to others, especially those who may be at higher risk for severe illness.

Duration of Isolation

You should isolate for at least 5 days from the onset of symptoms or from the date of your positive test if you are asymptomatic. If you have symptoms, you can end isolation after 5 days if:

• You have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.
• Your other symptoms are improving.

If you still have a fever or your symptoms have not improved after 5 days, you should continue to isolate until you meet the criteria for ending isolation.

Precautions After Isolation

Even after you end isolation, it is recommended to wear a mask around others for an additional 5 days to further reduce the risk of spreading the virus. This is especially important in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.

Monitor Your Symptoms

During your recovery, keep an eye on your symptoms. If you're unsure about what you're experiencing or need guidance on your symptoms, try our free AI-powered symptom checker to help assess your condition. If your symptoms worsen or if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face, seek medical attention immediately.