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Self-isolation for COVID-19

Self-isolating means staying at home and avoiding contact with others to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your community. By self-isolating, you can help to stop the spread of illness to many other people so our health care system can respond and take care of those who need it.

You must self-isolate if

  • You have COVID-19​
  • You have COVID-19 symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat, difficulty breathing, muscle aches, tiredness)
  • Someone in your household has tested positive 
  • If you are not fully vaccinated (at least 14 days ago), you must self isolate if someone in your household has any symptoms, and/or is awaiting test results 
  • You may have been exposed to COVID-19​
  • You have returned from anywhere outside Canada within the past 14 days​​ and are unvaccinated.

​How to sel​f-isolateThis is an image that shows how to self-isolate

  • Stay home. 
  • Monitor your health for fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.  
  • Sneeze and cough into your sleeve. 
  • Wash your hands regularly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 
  • Do not go to work, school, or other public places. 
  • Do not use public transportation, taxis, or rideshares. 
  • Ask for help from friends, family, or neighbors with essential errands like going to the grocery store.
  • Seek services over the phone or internet, when possible.  
  • Avoid contact with older people and people with chronic illnesses like asthma or diabetes.
  • For more information on how to self-isolate, please click here​. 

I share my home with others. How can I self-iso​late to kee​​p them safe?

  • Stay in a separate room away from others in your home and use a separate bathroom if you have one.
  • Make sure shared rooms have good air flow (like open windows, if possible).
  • If you are in a room with others, keep at least 2 metres distance from them. 
  • Do not share household items such as dishes, towels, or bedding.
  • Clean regularly touched items like door knobs, faucets, or tables daily. 

What should I​​ do if I develop a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing while I’m self-isolating?

  • Continue to self-isolate.
  • Call your local assessment centre for testing, if you haven't been tested.
  • Wear a mask if you leave your home to see a health care provider.
  • If you require emergency care, call 911 and be sure to tell them you are in self-isolation. 

Helpful information:

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