Whether you are caring for a COVID-19 patient at home, or simply live with a person who has been diagnosed with the virus, you need to be sure to protect yourself and others in your household.

Where can I get answers?

You can start here and watch the video that provides guidance about your next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should we quarantine?

Everyone who has had close contact with the person diagnosed with COVID-19 should quarantine at home for 10 days, or seven days if they’ve tested negative for the virus.  They should check with their schools or workplaces for specific guidelines for their returning.

What is the difference between isolation and quarantine?

Quarantine: separates and restricts the movements of those who were exposed to COVID-19 to see if they become sick. Example: staying home and out of the public.

Isolation: separates those who are sick with COVID-19 from those who do not have it to prevent the spread of the virus. Example: restricting and isolating to a room separated from others in the household.

Do I have COVID-19 if I live with someone who has the virus?

Not necessarily. But even if you don’t get sick, you could be a carrier of the virus and transmit it to someone else, which is why it’s so important to quarantine.

How do I safely care for a loved one with COVID-19?

You can help by:

  • Fulling personal needs for the patient, such as getting groceries, prescriptions.
  • Understanding instructions on medications and care from the patient’s health care provider in case you’re needed to assist.
  • Cleaning often and cleaning well. If you’re cleaning blood, stool or body fluids from the patient, wear disposable masks and gloves. When you’re done cleaning:
    • Remove and dispose of the gloves
    • Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or an alcohol-based sanitizer
    • Remove your mask, and clean your hands thoroughly again
    • Remove and wash your clothes with the warmest temperatures recommended
  • Monitor your own symptoms as well as those of the patient. If the patient appears to be getting sicker, contact their health care provider about next steps.
  • Contact your own health care provider if you develop the following symptoms:
    • Cough
    • Chest tightness
    • Headache
    • Indigestion
    • Fever (100 degrees or higher)
    • Chills
  • If anyone in your household develops emergency symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, call 9-1-1 and explain you’ve been caring for a COVID-19 patient.

If you have any additional questions, call 888-402-LVHN or visit LVHN.org/virtualcare to learn about speaking to a provider virtually.