If a person with COVID-19 symptoms does not get tested for SARS-CoV-2 or does not see a health care provider and given an alternative diagnosis, they should follow the same isolation guidance as persons who test positive for SARS-CoV-2. This is irrespective of vaccination status.

If a student or staff member tests positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a molecular or antigen test, they can return to school when the following criteria are met:

• 5 days* have passed since symptom onset, or since positive test specimen collection date if no symptoms are present (*note: people who are severely ill or severely immunocompromised may need to isolate for up to 20 days); AND
• No symptoms are present, or symptoms are resolving; AND
• No fever within the past 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications.

Students and staff should continue monitoring for symptoms and wearing a well-fitting mask around others through day 10 (days 6-10) both in and out of school, including during extracurricular and sports activities.

Please note: Individuals who have been in isolation may test on day 5 of their isolation period, but only if the above criteria for completing isolation have been met. An antigen test is recommended. If the test result is positive, they must continue to isolate until day 10. If the test result is negative, they may return to school and should continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others at home and in public until day 10.

Updated 1/28/22

• Unvaccinated students who are identified as a close contact must quarantine for a minimum of five full days. 
  • To return to school on day six post-exposure your student must remain asymptomatic and provide a negative COVID-19 test result. The test should occur no sooner than on or after day five post-exposure. 
  • As an alternative, your student may quarantine for 10 full days without additional testing required. They may return to school on day 11 if they remain asymptomatic.
  • Students should continue monitoring for symptoms and wearing a well-fitting mask around others through day 10 (days 6-10) both in and out of school, including during extracurricular and sports activities.
• Vaccinated students who are identified as a close contact and DO NOT have any symptoms will not have to quarantine but should monitor for symptoms for 10 days. It is recommended that they get a molecular COVID-19 test five days post-exposure or if symptoms develop.

DOH quarantine guidelines

Updated 1/28/22