If you test positive for COVID-19 and your symptoms are mild, you need to isolate at home and, if possible, in a separate room away from your loved ones. If your condition worsens, please seek medical help as soon as possible. 

 Guidelines after testing positive: 

  • Refrain from going out and to work.
  • Stop using public transport.
  • Self-isolate, ideally alone in a room and away from other family members or roommates, for a period of no less that 10 days.
  • If practical, avoid sharing a bathroom with other individuals.
  • If you have to share a bathroom with others, be mindful to clean commonly touched surfaces after every use to minimise the risk of infection.
  • During the quarantine period it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms and to call your doctor if you are concerned about your health. Serious symptoms include shortness of breath or struggling to breathe. If these symptoms persist, you should seek immediate medical attention at a hospital facility.
  • Those living on their own should ask family or friends to assist with grocery shopping, or make use of online delivery services for quick and convenient deliveries.
  • Pet owners should ask for assistance in taking care of their pets. If this is not an option, wear a mask and wash your hands before and after any interaction with your pets. And even though it will be difficult, remember to avoid cuddles.
  • Those who share accommodation (hostels, university residences or similar) with communal kitchens, bathrooms and living areas, should remain in their room and only leave when necessary (wearing a mask if they do so).
  • When doing laundry, it is recommended to wash items at the highest possible temperature (compatible with the fabric). This should be above 60°C if possible. Be mindful to clean the area around the washing machine.
  • Laundry should not be taken to a launderette.
  • If possible, the items should be tumble dried and ironed using the highest setting compatible with the fabric.
  • If you are unable to meet the minimum criteria to safely self-isolate, you should be admitted to an appropriate isolation facility, if available.

If you manage your symptoms in the safety of your residence, you can de-isolate after 10 days if no new symptoms have presented, but only if you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without pharmaceutical intervention.[13]