Conditions and Guidelines for Home Quarantine Due to Coronavirus

If you have symptoms of coronavirus, have traveled to an area affected by the virus, or have been in close proximity to someone suspected of having the virus, self-quarantine is advised. This involves staying at home for 14 days and avoiding contact with other people or animals. Whether you have traveled to a high-risk region or not, if you have been within 2 meters of an infected person, you should self-quarantine as a precaution.

Qualifying for Home Quarantine

Latest guidelines from the health ministry stipulate that only individuals who have been clinically diagnosed as being either pre-symptomatic or having a very mild case of COVID-19, identified by a treating medical officer and with adequate facilities at home, are eligible for home quarantine. Severe cases will be admitted to dedicated COVID-19 facilities.

Instructions for Those in Quarantine

People in home quarantine should adhere to the following guidelines:

Stay in a well-ventilated room preferably with an attached bathroom. If another family member needs to stay in the room, maintain a one-meter distance at all times. Avoid contact with the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with co-morbidities. Wear gloves and a face mask at all times. Do not share household items like utensils, drinking glasses, towels, and bedding. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and sanitizers for at least 20 seconds. Disinfect masks and other items used by caregivers and close contacts. Inform the nearest health center if symptoms appear.

Many people struggle with the mental burden of self-quarantine, especially after a few days when the pressure starts to build. Engage in activities like listening to music, reading, or watching TV to ease the burden. Many have turned to virtual gatherings like Zoom parties to stay connected with friends and family.

Guidelines for Family Members of Those in Quarantine

Designate one person to care for the individual in quarantine. This person should:

Wear gloves and a mask when in contact with the quarantined individual. Avoid direct skin contact. Do not shake the soiled linen of those in quarantine. Regularly disinfect surfaces the individual comes into contact with.

Getting Supplies

The availability of supplies during self-quarantine will depend on your location. In India, non-essential activities are restricted, but many still have access to e-commerce sites such as Amazon and Flipkart. For those in red zones, online ordering through platforms like Amazon and BigBasket has been successful.

Individuals in a green, red, or orange zone can order essential items from e-commerce sites like Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, and Zomato, though it's important not to hoard supplies. Local chemists and kirana stores are also open and willing to deliver goods.

Community support during times of quarantine should be acknowledged. Use home delivery services and try to patronize local businesses where possible. Your efforts can make a big difference in ensuring public health.