Isolation Guidelines
The following guidance is effective September 6, 2022
At-Home Isolation Protocol and Returning to School, Childcare or Program
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An individual who tests positive for COVID-19 with a viral test (Molecular (PCR/NAAT) or antigen, including self-tests) is required to follow isolation guidelines
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Scholars or staff who test positive are required to isolate themselves at home regardless of vaccination status for at least 5 days.
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They may return after 5 full days of isolation if they are asymptomatic or symptoms have improved and have no fever for 24hrs without use of medication.
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Day 0 is first day of symptoms
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Repeating initial tests does not change isolation protocol. Additionally, individuals who test positive using antigen or at-home tests towards the end of the full 5 days, and/or on days 6-10, are required to complete the 10 full days of isolation.
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Testing on day 10 is not recommended.
Isolation of COVID-19 Cases
- Any scholar or staff who reports or has COVID-19-like symptoms is required to be immediately isolated from others, sent home and referred for diagnostic testing, regardless of vaccination status.
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While isolated, they must wear a well-fitting mask
If asymptomatic (without symptoms):
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Isolate for at least 5 days, with Day 0 being the day of the positive test and Day 1 being the first full day after the specimen was collected
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If there are still no symptoms after 5 days, end isolation.
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If symptoms develop, the 5-day isolation period starts over with Day 0 being the first day of symptoms.
If the person has or had symptoms:
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Isolate for at least 5 days, with Day 0 being the first day of symptoms, and Day 1 being the first full day after developing symptoms
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After 5 days, end isolation if fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever, reducing medication and improvement of symptoms
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If symptoms and/or fever continue, wait to end isolation until fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and improvement of symptoms.