Quick Tips: 9 Things to Do if You've Been Exposed to COVID-19

Tips

• Stay home.

  If you've been exposed to the virus but don't have symptoms, you may need to stay in quarantine for 10 full days. But if you are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines, or if you tested positive for the COVID virus in the last 90 days and have recovered, you may not need to quarantine. Ask your doctor, or go to cdc.gov to use the COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation Calculator.

• Get tested.

  If you have symptoms, it's important to get tested as soon as possible. And if your test is positive, call your doctor right away. They may have you take a medicine to keep you from getting seriously ill. Treatment works best when it's started early. If you have questions about COVID-19 testing, ask your doctor or go to cdc.gov to use the COVID-19 Viral Testing Tool.

• For at least 10 days, wear a mask when you are around other people.

  And for at least 10 days, don't visit people at high risk for serious illness from COVID.

• Limit contact with people in your home.

  If possible, stay in a separate bedroom and use a separate bathroom.

• Avoid contact with pets and other animals.

  If you can, have a friend or family member care for them while you're sick.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

  Then throw it in the trash right away.

• Wash your hands often, especially after you cough or sneeze.

  Use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Don't share personal household items.

  These include bedding, towels, cups and glasses, and eating utensils.

• Clean and disinfect your home every day.

  Use household cleaners or disinfectant wipes or sprays.