Home Isolation Guide

Preparation Steps

• Designate a specific isolation room with a window that can be opened for ventilation; ideally it should have its own bathroom.
• Stock a 14-day supply of necessities before illness strikes: medications, water, non-perishable food, a thermometer, and a pulse oximeter.
• Establish a household communication plan so the isolated person can signal needs (via text or a signal system) without requiring direct contact with others.
• Pre-position cleaning supplies (disinfectant, wipes, trash bags) in or near the isolation room.
• Identify a local healthcare contact number and know the symptoms that require emergency care.

Immediate Actions

• Begin isolation immediately upon symptom onset or confirmed exposure — do not wait for a positive test result.
• Wear a well-fitting N95 mask whenever sharing spaces, bathrooms, or hallways with other household members.
• Use a dedicated bathroom if at all possible; if sharing, disinfect all surfaces thoroughly after each use.
• Disinfect all shared surfaces (door handles, faucets, light switches, phone screens) at least twice daily.
• Monitor blood oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter — readings below 94% require immediate medical attention; call emergency services.

What to Avoid

• Do not share utensils, dishes, towels, bedding, or personal items with other household members.
• Avoid close contact with elderly individuals, immunocompromised people, or young children in the household — they face the highest risk of severe illness.
• Do not delay seeking emergency medical care if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or SpO2 readings below 94%.
• Do not end isolation before completing the full recommended period as defined by current health authority guidelines.
• Avoid removing your mask in shared spaces even briefly — airborne transmission can occur with very short exposures.

Supplies Needed

• Digital thermometer (check temperature twice daily during isolation).
• Pulse oximeter.
• N95 masks (sufficient supply for the isolation period).
• Disinfectant spray and disinfectant wipes.
• Antiviral and antipyretic medications (as recommended for the specific pathogen).
• Electrolyte packets or sports drinks to maintain hydration.
• Dedicated dishes, cups, and utensils for the isolated person.

Recovery Steps

• Confirm recovery criteria per current health authority guidelines — typically 10 days from symptom onset plus 24 hours without fever without fever-reducing medication and improving symptoms.
• Thoroughly air out the isolation room by opening windows before other household members occupy it.
• Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used during isolation in hot water.
• Discard worn N95 masks; disinfect the pulse oximeter and thermometer.
• Schedule a follow-up with a healthcare provider if symptoms were severe or if you have underlying conditions.