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Isolating and quarantining are related but distinct approaches to limiting COVID-19’s spread. In short: Isolate if you’re sick, quarantine if you have been exposed.

You must isolate if you are symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19. This means you must be alone, without direct contact with anyone else, until you can no longer spread the virus. This typically lasts about 10 days.

You must quarantine if you were exposed to someone with COVID-19 but haven’t shown symptoms or had a positive COVID-19 test. It’s best if you can quarantine for 14 days. However, if 10 days after your exposure you have no symptoms, you can end quarantine. You can end your quarantine after 7 days if you get tested and are negative for the virus.

Resources are available to support you if you’re required to isolate or quarantine, and need medical, housing, food, or other assistance.

Isolating and quarantining go far beyond the Commonwealth’s Stay at Home Advisory.