New Information on Quarantine for COVID-19 Effective 12/3/2020
REVISED OPTIONS TO DISCONTINUE QUARANTINE FAQs
What has changed?
There are now three options:
Quarantine can remain at 14 days.
Quarantine can end after DAY 10 without testing and if no symptoms have been reported during daily monitoring.
Quarantine can end after DAY 7 if a COVID-19 test collected on or after DAY 5 is negative and if no symptoms were reported during daily monitoring. Diagnostic testing resources must be sufficient and available. (Testnebraska)
Why the changes?
The CDC revised its guidance based on ongoing research. We are learning more as we work through the pandemic and changes will be made in the best interest of the public’s health. The CDC still recommends a 14 day quarantine period when possible. However, reducing the length of quarantine may reduce the burden of quarantine and may increase community compliance.
Are there risks with ending quarantine according to the new CDC guidance?
With the 10 day strategy, the residual post-quarantine transmission risk is estimated to be about 1%-10%.
With the 7 day strategy, the residual post-quarantine transmission risk is estimated to be about 5%-12%.
With the 15 day strategy, the residual post-quarantine transmission risk is estimated to be about 10.2%-3%.
What if I end my quarantine before 14 days according to the new guidelines?
You need to self-monitor for the development of COVID-19 symptoms and wear a mask over the nose and mouth 100% of the time for the full 14 days. If you develop any symptoms, you must immediately quarantine yourself
What does my school student need to do if he/she ends the quarantine before the 14 days?
Your student must wear a mask 100% of the time when at school or participating in any school activity until day 14 of the original quarantine. If removing the mask for eating, maintain a 6 foot distance from any other person.
What if I start to show COVID-19 symptoms during quarantine?
If you start to have symptoms of COVID-19, you should seek a diagnostic test. You will need to isolate until you get your test results, so you don’t spread the virus to others.
What is a “diagnostic test”?
PCR tests and Antigen tests (nasal or oral swab specimens) are acceptable tests. Antibody test (blood specimen) results do not qualify for ending quarantine early.
What if I don’t have symptoms, but I get a positive test result?
Some people do not show symptoms. If you receive a positive test result, you should isolate. This has not changed. You must isolate for 10 days and until you have been fever-free without fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours and your symptoms have improved.
How do I self-monitor for symptom development?
Monitor daily for symptom development, which can include a fever (of 100.4℉ or above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, tiredness, muscle aches, headaches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and/or diarrhea.
Where can I get a “diagnostic” test?
You may go to Testnebraska.com and sign up for a test at no cost to you. You may also ask your health care provider for a test.
How do I access Testnebraska?
Visit Testnebraska.com or Testnebraska/es for Spanish, to schedule an appointment at one of the more than 60 Test Nebraska locations across the state. Those with questions about testing or who need help completing the online assessment can call the Test Nebraska hotline at (402)207-9377.
If you have questions, please contact our school nurse, Peg Butler at peg.butler@cozadschools.net
