Lehigh Valley Health Network has the information you need to help you through your recovery and keep the people you live with safe from the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Where can I get answers?

Your primary care provider is always a phone call away or via a secure message through your MyLVHN account to answer questions you may have.

How long should I self-isolate?

Now that you’ve received a positive COVID-19 test, you will need to begin home isolation immediately.
Continue to isolate until:

  • Ten days have passed since your symptoms began
  • You feel improvement in symptoms and no longer have a fever without the use of fever-reducing medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
  • You have consulted with your health care provider and state and local health departments.

Before returning to work, it’s important that you consult with your employer about its COVID-19 policy.

What if my COVID-19 symptoms worsen?

If you develop new or worsening symptoms, contact your primary care provider by phone for guidance. If you do not have a primary care provider, visit MyLVHN.org or use the MyLVHN app to set up an ExpressCARE Video Visit. If your symptoms are severe get to an emergency room right away.

What are considered severe symptoms?

Certain symptoms are considered emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent severe pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake

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.

How can I keep members of my household safe?

Everyone who has had close contact with you should remain on home quarantine for 7 days (if they have a negative COVID-19 test), or up to 10 days (without a test), per the Centers for Disease Control. They also must monitor their health during this time.

If possible, members of your household should use a separate bedroom and bathroom than you. Make sure the only people in your house are those who need to be there. When it comes to your pet, have other members of your house handle and care for them until you feel well.

Additional guidance to help keep others in your home safe:

  • Improve indoor air flow – Ensure your home has good air flow. Slightly opening a window can improve air flow.
  • Clean your hands – Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. (Soap and water are preferable if your hands are visibly dirty.) In between hand washings, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60-95% alcohol.
  • Eyes, nose, mouth – Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Coughs and sneezes – Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw used tissues in a lined trash can. Then wash your hands immediately.
  • Mask usage – Wear masks when you are unable to distance from others in your home.
  • Don’t share – Avoid sharing household items, including dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, bedding or other items.

Keep your home clean

It’s also important to keep your home and surroundings clean.

  • Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day (such as, counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables).
  • Clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool or body fluids
  • Use a household cleaning spray or wipe, according to the label instructions
  • Wear gloves while cleaning
  • Keep the area well-ventilated
  • Wash laundry thoroughly