To reduce the spread of Covid-19, it is important to calculate isolation time and to know other key steps for those that have the virus. And this post provides key tools to achieve this.
If you are reading this, there is a chance that you or someone you know has tested positive for Covid-19. And you are in good hands.
The CDC has built a quick and easy to understand “Quarantine and Isolation Calculator”. The tool provides general guidance to calculate isolation time, quarantine and related steps to further prevent spreading the virus.
People with COVID-19 and close contacts should follow the recommendations outlined in the guide. And the recommendations do not change based on community case levels.
Today, the Omicron BA.5 subvariant has been spreading rapidly in the United States. And it is being reported that even those that are fully vaccinated or have recovered from an earlier infection of the virus, are being infected with BA.5. However, reporting shows that vaccinations reduce the impact of the virus.
Last, anyone that suspects that they are infected or has recently tested positive for the virus, should wear a mask when around others. And they should do this even interacting with individuals that are fully vaccinated. Please see our guide on masks. Here are our key help messages on masks:
Masks Telegraph a Key Health Message
A mask is a health message. Wearing one telegraphs an important health message.
A mask reminds the person wearing it that the virus is serious. It also reminds others of the same message, too. In some settings such as schools, masks remain key.
Masks Protect the Person Wearing the Mask
Masks help protect us from the virus. This is key.
Masks Protect Others, too
Masks also protect others if we have the virus. It can be days before symptoms appear. Yet, you could still spread it. Also, some people carry the virus but never experience symptoms themselves.
Please wear a mask. And encourage others, too.
A face shield alone will not stop the virus. A simple study shows the limits of a plastic face shield. And that they will not protect us from the virus. But they have some benefits. Instead, you need to wear a face mask. Masks are key to halting the virus.
However, wearing a face mask with the face shield does work.
Face shields alone do not protect us. But they do provide advantages. Experts point out that a face shield will protect the eyes and discourage touching of the face.
Today, COVID-19 is a vaccine-preventable disease. Vaccines are safe. And they are effective. More, even though there are reported “breakthrough cases” (including the BA.5 subvariant), they substantially reduce symptoms.
Illustration by Natasha Remarchuk