What To Do If You're Exposed To COVID-19: Lorain County Health

AVON, OH — Even as the COVID-19 pandemic rages, the season for holiday gatherings has begun in earnest.

As northern Ohio battles a revived surge, Lorain County Public Health officials have advice for anyone who is exposed to COVID-19 or tests positive for the virus.

First, let's define what exposure to COVID-19 means. Health officials define exposure as being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for 15 minutes or more.

If you're vaccinated against the virus, here's what you should do after being exposed or testing positive:

• You do not need to quarantine if you show no symptoms of the virus.
• Get tested for COVID-19 one week after you're exposed, even if you're asymptomatic.
• Wear a mask indoors for two weeks following your exposure, or until your test results are negative.

Here's what to do if you're unvaccinated:

• Quarantine by yourself, at home, for 10 to 14 days after the exposure. Symptoms can take up to two weeks to develop.
• Monitor yourself for symptoms and call a doctor if you begin getting sick.
• Tell your employer or school district you may have been exposed to COVID-19.

"When it comes to COVID-19 holiday safety, COVID-19 vaccines are still the best way to protect yourself against severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19," the health district said. "Get a COVID-19 vaccine, or booster, if eligible. Encourage your loved ones to get vaccinated against COVID-19."

COVID-19 vaccines are available through Lorain County Public Health but are also available through local pharmacies. Anyone can call 440-284-3206 or visit LorainCountyHealth.com/coronavirus for an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine of any type or dose.