COVID-19 - As Ontario reopens, learn about public health and workplace safety measures. Learn about the COVID-19 vaccination and service disruptions.

Self-Isolation

Who should self-isolate

Self-isolate if you have one of the following:

  • Start to develop COVID-19 symptoms
  • Are living with a household member that has symptoms and is being sent for COVID-19 testing. Household members don't need to self-isolate if:
    • They are a fully vaccinated and are not showing any symptoms OR
    • They were previously positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days and have since been cleared and are currently not showing any symptoms
  • Are a high-risk contact of someone with COVID-19. You don't need to self-isolate if:
    • You are fully vaccinated and are not showing any symptoms OR
    • You were previously positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days and have since been cleared and are currently not showing symptoms
  • Are a laboratory confirmed case with COVID-19
  • Are required to do so under the Quarantine Act due to travel outside of Canada. There are some exemptions to quarantine for eligible fully vaccinated travellers.
  • Are directed to do so by Public Health or your health care provider

Review instructions for positive COVID-19 cases and high-risk contacts.

Review specific self-isolation requirements and frequently asked questions for school / child care.

What 'fully vaccinated' means

You're considered fully vaccinated when you have received:

  • The full series of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized by Health Canada, or any combination of such vaccines, OR
  • One or two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada, followed by one dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine authorized by Health Canada, OR
  • Three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada.

You must also have received your final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days ago.

How to self-isolate

  • Stay at home and indoors. Don't go to school, work or any public areas.
  • Find alternate accommodations away from anyone else if possible
  • Co-isolation is discouraged because the COVID-19 infection can spread in the home. Learn about the differences between self-isolating and co-isolating.
  • If getting alternate accommodations isn't possible, stay in a separate room
    • Have a caregiver bring meals and supplies to the room and drop off outside the door
    • Have a bathroom in your home dedicated to only you. If a bathroom needs to be shared, clean after every use.
    • Don't share utensils, toothbrushes, tablets, gaming devices, headsets, towels, etc.
    • If you must leave your room, wear a medical mask if you have one, otherwise wear a face covering
    • Keep a physical distance of two metres (six feet) from other household members
    • Rooms in the home should be well ventilated, such as keeping windows open, if possible and if weather permits and can be tolerated
  • No visitors
  • You may go outside in your own backyard or balcony. Make sure to clean doorknobs after each use.
  • Don't use public transportation, rideshare companies or taxis
  • Cancel non-urgent appointments
  • If you must go out for a medical appointment or urgent care, drive by yourself. If you need someone to drive you, sit in the back seat, wear a mask and roll down your window. Your driver should wear a mask as well.
  • Make alternate arrangements to support children and other dependents, if possible
  • Ask a friend or family member to help you get a supply of groceries and other necessities. Don't go out and get them yourself.

If you become symptomatic while self-isolating

Review how to monitor your health and arrange for testing under instructions for high-risk contacts.

How long do I self-isolate

Review instructions for positive COVID-19 cases and high-risk contacts.

Coping with self-isolation

It's normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or anxious during times of crisis. Try to focus on what you can control, and allow your emotions to come and go like a wave. Use these tips to help cope with self-isolation.

Travel restrictions, exemptions and advice

Learn more about travel restrictions and exemptions.

Ventilation guidance

Keeping rooms in the home well ventilated can help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Prevent the spread of COVID-19 and learn more about ventilation guidance.

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