COVID-19 Exposure, But No Symptoms

When to Call for COVID-19 Exposure, But No Symptoms

Care Advice

COVID-19 Exposure, but NO Symptoms

1. Exposure and No Symptoms - Overview:
   • Although you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you do not currently have any symptoms. COVID-19 symptoms start within 10 days after the last exposure.
   • Since it's been less than 10 days, you are still at risk for coming down with COVID-19.
   • You need to watch for symptoms until 10 days have passed.
   • Stay at home and follow this medical advice.
2. You Do Not Need to See Your Doctor
   • You do not have any symptoms. Exposed people don't need to see a doctor.
   • You may need to get a COVID-19 test. See Testing section below.
   • If you become sick and develop more than mild symptoms, you may need to see your doctor.
   • You can find the answers to most of your questions here or online.
3. COVID-19 Testing: Who Needs It
   • Testing is widely available at doctor’s offices, retail clinics, drug stores and urgent care centers.
   • Diagnostic tests are performed on nasal or mouth secretions. The tests can tell us if you have a COVID-19 infection now. Timing is important on when to do this test:
   • With Symptoms. Get a test within 3 days of onset of symptoms.
   • Without Symptoms and a COVID-19 close contact. Get a test on day 5 after the last day of exposure.
   • If you have testing questions, call your doctor during office hours.
4. Self-Monitor for COVID-19 Symptoms
   • The most common symptoms are sore throat, cough, headache and fever. Some patients progress to shortness of breath (trouble breathing).
   • Other common symptoms are chills, shivering (shaking), runny nose, muscle pain, fatigue (tiredness) and loss of smell or taste.
   • Less common symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
   • If any of these symptoms occur, get a COVID-19 test.
   • Early detection of symptoms and home isolation are the only ways to reduce spread of the disease.
5. Home Quarantine is Not Needed for Those Exposed and Have NO Symptoms:
   • Wear a mask around others for 10 days.
   • If no symptoms, get tested on day 5 after last close contact with an infected person. If positive, will need to start Home isolation.
   • Quarantine Questions for Your Doctor:
   • Home quarantine can be complicated. A family member may need to return to work. Someone in the household may be elderly or have a serious medical problem.
   • If you have additional questions, call your doctor during office hours. Your doctor is the best resource for up-to-date information on COVID-19.
6. Day 10 or Later After Close Contact and No Symptoms:
   • The COVID-19 infection starts within 14 days of an exposure.
   • If the exposed person has no symptoms of respiratory infection (such as fever or cough) during the 10 days after an exposure, they should be safe from getting COVID-19 from this exposure.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Fever occurs
   • Cough or trouble breathing occurs
   • Other symptoms occur
   • You think you need to be seen
   • You have other questions or concerns

COVID-19 Prevention

1. COVID-19 Vaccine - Get Your COVID-19 Shot and a Booster Shot:
   • Vaccines have saved more lives than any other public health action. They are the most powerful weapon we have against deadly infectious diseases. Follow the science.
   • Safe and effective vaccines and boosters are now available for people age 6 months and older.
   • Get a COVID-19 vaccine and boosters when eligible. It could save your life and protect your family.
   • Vaccine Sites: find a nearby vaccine site at vaccines.gov or call your doctor’s office.
2. COVID-19 - How to Protect Yourself and Family from Catching It - The Basics:
   • Get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster(s) when eligible. It is your best protection against this serious infection.
   • Avoid close contact with sick people.
   • Consider wearing a face mask when community spread is high.
   • Wash hands often with soap and water (very important). Always do this before you eat.
   • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water is not available. Remember: soap and water work better.
   • Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth unless your hands are clean. Germs on the hands can get into your body this way.
   • Don't share glasses, plates or eating utensils.
   • Don't shake hands. Greet others with a smile and a nod.
3. Social (Safe) Distancing and COVID-19 Prevention:
   • Avoid close contact with people known to have COVID-19 infection.
   • Social Distancing: try to stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from anyone who is sick, especially if they are coughing. Avoid crowds, because you can’t tell who might be sick.
   • If COVID-19 becomes widespread in your community, try to stay 6 feet (2 meters) away from everyone outside your family unit.
   • Wear a mask when entering any public building or crowded outdoor area.
4. Face Masks and COVID-19 Prevention:
   • Overview: face masks help reduce the spread of COVID-19 (and influenza). Reason: people with COVID-19 can have no symptoms, but still spread the virus.
   • Sick people should always wear a face mask, if you are around other people or need to leave the home. Example: for medical visits. Exception: patients with trouble breathing in a mask (CDC). Consider a loose face covering, such as a bandana.
   • Well people should still consider wearing a mask if:
   • You are in indoor public spaces (such as a church or a grocery store).
   • You are in a crowded outdoor setting (e.g., concert, music festival, rally).
   • You are traveling on a plane, bus, train, or other form of public transit.
   • You are in a transportation hub such as an airport or train station.
   • You must be around someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or has tested positive for COVID-19.
   • Age Limits: face coverings are not recommended for children less than 2 years (CDC).
5. Keep Your Mind and Body Strong:
   • Get your body ready to fight the COVID-19 virus.
   • Get enough sleep (very important).
   • Keep your heart strong. Walk or exercise every day. Take the stairs. Caution: avoid physical exhaustion.
   • Think positive thoughts.
   • Stay well-hydrated.
   • Eat healthy meals. Avoid overeating to deal with your fears.
   • Avoid the over-use of anti-fever medicines. Fever fights infections and ramps up your immune system.

And remember, contact your doctor if you develop any of the 'Call Your Doctor' symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.