When experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test, managing daily responsibilities like shopping while protecting public health is a common concern. Making informed decisions about your activities helps limit the virus’s spread within the community.
Current Guidance on Isolation and Precautions
Public health recommendations for COVID-19 now align with guidance for other common respiratory viruses like the flu and RSV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises staying home and away from others if you have unexplained respiratory symptoms. This includes isolating from people you live with who are not sick.
You can resume normal activities once your symptoms are improving and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medications. Even after you are no longer staying home, it is suggested to take additional precautions for the following five days.
These precautions include wearing a well-fitting mask, such as an N95 or KN95, especially when around others indoors. Maintaining distance and improving ventilation in shared spaces are also recommended. If your symptoms or fever return, restart staying home until you are improving and fever-free for at least 24 hours.
Managing Essential Needs While Infected
When sick with COVID-19, the primary recommendation is to avoid public places to prevent transmitting the virus. To manage essential needs like groceries or medication, several alternatives to in-person shopping are available. Online delivery services for groceries and pharmacy items can ensure you receive what you need without leaving your home.
Many stores offer curbside pickup options, allowing you to order online and have items brought directly to your vehicle, minimizing contact. Reaching out to friends, family, or neighbors for assistance can also be a helpful solution. They may be able to pick up and drop off necessities for you, further reducing your need to enter public spaces.
In situations where no other option is available and the need is urgent, such as for critical medication, a brief, essential trip may be considered a last resort. During such a trip, it is important to wear a high-quality mask (N95 or KN95) to reduce potential transmission. Maintain maximum distance from others, choose off-peak hours to reduce crowd density, and minimize your time inside the store. Using hand sanitizer after touching surfaces can help reduce germ spread.