The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed the way we interact with each other, and the way we live our lives. One of the most important things to consider is what to do if a family member gets tested for COVID. Knowing the guidelines for isolation and the steps to take can help keep everyone in the family safe and healthy.
What to Do if a Family Member is Tested for COVID
If a family member is tested for COVID, it is important to take the proper steps to protect the rest of the household. The first step is to contact the local health department or a healthcare provider for more information. They will provide guidance and help determine the best course of action. The family member who was tested should stay at home and self-isolate until they receive their test results.
If the test results are positive, the family should contact the local health department or healthcare provider again for instructions on how to proceed. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider to ensure that everyone in the household is safe.
Isolation Guidelines for Households
If a family member tests positive for COVID, the rest of the household should take the following steps to protect themselves:
- Stay at home and self-isolate.
- Avoid contact with the family member who tested positive.
- Clean and disinfect all surfaces that the family member may have come into contact with.
- Wear a face covering when in the same room as the family member who tested positive.
- Monitor for symptoms of COVID and contact a healthcare provider if any symptoms develop.
It is also important to practice social distancing, even when at home. This means avoiding close contact with other household members, and limiting the number of people in the same room.
When a family member tests positive for COVID, it is important to take the proper steps to protect the rest of the household. Following the guidelines for isolation and cleaning, as well as practicing social distancing, can help keep everyone in the family safe and healthy. If there are any questions or concerns, it is best to contact the local health department or healthcare provider for more information.
As Covid-19 continues to spread around the world, it has become increasingly important for people to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them. Part of this, of course, means isolating if a family member gets tested for Covid-19.
The first step to take if a family member is tested for Covid-19 is to discuss the household’s plan on how to address the situation. The CDC recommends individuals remain in the same household until the test results come back. It is important to remember that testing can take several days, so those in the household should plan ahead with the intent of preventative self-isolation during that time period.
If the family member tests positive for Covid-19, then the entire household should quarantine for 14 days before return to their normal activities. During the quarantine period, all members of the house should monitor themselves for any signs and symptoms of the virus, and if any develop, they should be reported immediately.
Those in the house who have not been in contact with the family member tested should try to limit their interactions with visitors and stay away from public places and crowded events. Additionally, anyone in the home should practice social distancing, which means keeping a six-foot distance from anyone outside of the household in all settings, including while at the grocery store or other public places.
Of course, the most important preventative measure that one can take if a family member is tested for Covid-19 is to practice good hygiene. This means washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, and avoiding touching your face. It is also important to wear face masks and/or face shields when outside of the house.
While this process may seem daunting, it is of utmost importance to keep everyone safe. Following all of the steps listed above will help ensure that everyone in the household is kept safe, and will help prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the community.