Most people who get COVID-19 will be able to recover at home. CDC has directions for
people who are recovering at home and their caregivers, including:
Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.
In adults, emergency warning signs*:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- *This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other
symptom that is severe or concerning.
Use a separate room and bathroom for sick household members (if possible).
Clean hands regularly by handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Provide your sick household member with clean disposable facemasks to wear at home,
if available, to help prevent spreading COVID-19 to others.
Clean the sick room and bathroom, as needed, to avoid unnecessary contact with the sick person.
Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, food, and drinks.
During an outbreak, stay calm and put your preparedness plan to work. Follow the steps
below:
Protect yourself and others.
- Stay home if you are sick. Keep away from people who are sick. Limit close contact
with others as much as possible (about 6 feet).
Put your household plan into action.
- Stay informed about the local COVID-19 situation. Be aware of temporary school dismissals in your area, as this may affect your household's
daily routine.
- Continue practicing everyday preventive actions. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash your hands often with soap and water
for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer
that contains 60% alcohol. Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily using
a regular household detergent and water.
- Notify your workplace as soon as possible if your regular work schedule changes. Ask to work from home or take leave if you or someone in your household gets sick
with COVID-19 symptoms, or if your child's school is dismissed temporarily. Learn how businesses and employers can plan for and respond to COVID-19.
- Stay in touch with others by phone or email. If you have a chronic medical condition and live alone, ask family, friends, and
health care providers to check on you during an outbreak. Stay in touch with family
and friends, especially those at increased risk of developing severe illness, such
as older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions.
What to do if you're sick
How to take care of yourself at home
