Ohio University

Reference Guide – When to Isolate, Quarantine

With COVID Symptoms

Awaiting test results Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until results are available. If results are delayed, follow guidance for symptomatic and tested positive for COVD-19.
Tested positive

Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until:

  • At least 10 days* have passed since symptoms first appeared; AND
  • At least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers; AND
  • Other symptoms have improved.
Tested negative

Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until:

  • At least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers; AND
  • Other symptoms have improved.
Has not been tested

Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until:

  • At least 10 days* have passed since symptoms first appeared; AND
  • At least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers; AND
  • Other symptoms have improved.

Without COVID Symptoms

Awaiting test results No isolation is required while waiting for test results. Take everyday precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Tested positive

Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until:

  • At least 10 days* have passed since specimen collection of the first positive COVID-19 PCR/antigen testing while asymptomatic. If symptoms develop, follow guidance for symptomatic and tested positive for COVID-19.
Tested negative No isolation is required while waiting for test results. Take everyday precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Other Situations

Other symptoms and has not been tested

Stay home away from others or under isolation precautions until:

  • At least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers; AND
  • Other symptoms have improved.
Close contact with individual who has tested positive Quarantine for 14 days from the last exposure to the case, regardless of negative test results. If symptoms develop or if tested positive for COVID-19 by PCR or antigen testing, follow relevant isolation guidance.
Travelers from locations under the Ohio Travel Advisory Quarantine for 14 days from the last exposure to the case, regardless of negative test results. If symptoms develop or if tested positive for COVID-19 by PCR or antigen testing, follow relevant isolation guidance.

Note: A person who had severe/critical illness or is severely immunocompromised should follow the advice of their physician.