What do I do if I test positive for COVID-19? How long should I self-isolate if I have symptoms of respiratory illness?
Follow CDC guidelines and take preventive actions to reduce the spread of respiratory illness.
When you are sick, stay home or in your residence hall room and away from others (self-isolate) to keep illness from spreading.
You can go back to normal activities when both of the following are true for 24 hours:
- Your symptoms are getting better AND
- You have not had a fever (without using fever-reducing medication).
For the next 5 days, after you go back to normal activities, take added precautions. Continue to practice good hygiene. Other precautions when you are going to be around others indoors can include: wearing a mask that covers your mouth and nose, physically distancing, taking steps to improve indoor airflow, and/or testing. These actions can help reduce the spread of illness.
Inform close contacts (such as roommates, friends, or family) if you tested positive so that they can take everyday precautions to reduce the spread of illness.
Call Student Health Services at 703-993-2831 to speak with a nurse or make an appointment with a healthcare provider if your symptoms are getting worse or if you have concerns about symptoms. You can also call if you have questions about test results. After-hours, follow prompts to reach the free nurse advice service.
On March 1, 2024 the CDC updated guidance to align COVID-19 prevention with guidelines for other respiratory illnesses.