Why are you isolated?

About possible isolation

Why you are isolated?

Isolation may be applied when a person shows symptoms of a possible infectious disease. This is one of the main public health measures aimed at stopping the spread of infection and protecting others.

What we aim to achieve by applying isolation:

1. Prevent the spread of disease – some infectious agents spread very quickly, so early isolation helps to reduce the risk of infection.
2. To protect the immediate environment and community – even if they feel well, sick people can transmit the infection to others.
3. Ensure proper healthcare – isolation ensures that the person receives timely medical care and that their health is monitored.
4. Manage potential outbreaks – rapid response and isolation prevent larger-scale outbreaks.

When is isolation necessary?

• If you suspect you have the flu, with symptoms such as high temperature, cough, and muscle pain.
• If you experience symptoms characteristic of COVID-19, such as fever, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and severe fatigue.
• If chickenpox or measles is diagnosed, which spread very quickly through airborne droplets.
• If signs of tuberculosis are noticed (persistent cough, night sweats, weight loss), until it is confirmed that the person is not contagious.
• In the case of intestinal infections (e.g., salmonellosis or rotavirus), until the person is no longer spreading the pathogens through their feces.

What actions are taken?

• You will be temporarily isolated from other people.
• You will be examined by a doctor.
• The doctor will refer you for an X-ray to detect tuberculosis.

The end of isolation means that a person who has had a contagious disease (e.g., COVID-19, influenza, tuberculosis, scabies, or other infection) no longer poses a risk to others.

When isolation is considered to be over depends on the disease:

COVID-19 – isolation usually lasts 5 to 10 days from the onset of symptoms or a positive test, but only if the person has been fever-free for at least 24 hours and their symptoms are improving.

Influenza or other respiratory infections – it is usually recommended to isolate until the temperature is normal without medication for at least 24 hours and the main symptoms have subsided.

Tuberculosis – isolation continues until the treatment becomes effective and there are no longer any live bacteria in the patient's sputum (often takes several weeks).

Other infections (e.g., chickenpox, measles, scabies) – isolation ends when the person is no longer contagious according to the course of the specific disease.

Isolation is not a punishment. It is a responsible and necessary public health measure that helps protect not only the patient, but also their family members, cohabitants, and Center staff!