With an increase in cases of COVID-19, many people are concerned about contracting or spreading the disease. Health officials often ask those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive to the disease to self-quarantine as a precautionary measure. Planning ahead for the possibility of self-quarantine will ease the stress of staying indoors and limiting contact with others for 14 days. If you are asymptomatic but may have to self-quarantine, here are a few things to do to get ready. 
 
There is a difference between isolation and quarantine. Those who are sick must be isolated to prevent spreading the disease. In contrast, precautionary quarantine means staying in your home for the recommended 14 days to see if you develop symptoms. During that time, health officials recommend self-monitoring, including being aware of symptoms developing and taking your temperature twice a day.  
 
Check your pantry and refrigerator to make sure you have enough food. Many delivery services have implemented options to leave goods at your door without making contact with occupants. If you live alone, ask a friend or relative to be available for errands if you need help during the quarantine period.  
 
Think about your daily routine. If you take medication, do you have enough? If you don’t have a washing machine, do you have enough clean clothing to last for 14 days? Do you have drinking water? Make a list of contacts, including delivery services, friends, relatives, neighbors, health care providers, teachers and community outreach services.  
 
If you have a maid or other in-home help, consider whether to allow the person to continue working with limited contact or whether to ask them to stay away. If you need a caretaker’s help, use precautionary measures. This may include wearing a mask when in contact with the person, washing your hands frequently and cleaning surfaces and objects with disinfectant.  
 
If you work, arrange with your employer to work from home. Many companies have already asked employees to do that to minimize the risk of spreading the disease. Discuss sick leave options with your employer, and confirm how you will communicate and provide deliverables during your quarantine. If you are a student, contact your school to discuss how to keep up with classwork and submit assignments. 
 
If you develop symptoms during the 14 days, contact your local health department and your primary care provider.