Posted on: May 19, 2020 | | Written by:

Understanding the difference between isolation and quarantine

Covid 19 has struck terror and paralyzed the world with fear, while many have unfortunately succumbed to this deadly virus, hope is still alive as numerous victims brave the battle of survival. Life has come to a standstill in most countries, and people are watching the news with bated breath to see when the virus will lose and the country will win. To know more on covid-19 click here.

And while we watch this real life thriller we are bombarded with information and terms that may sound alien. Two such popular terms are ‘Quarantine’ and ‘Isolation’ which are used interchangeably by many without knowing what they actually mean. Here is a detailed explanation of what these terms mean:

  • Isolation
    Isolation refers to separating people who have contracted the Corona Virus from those who are seemingly healthy. Such said patients need to isolate themselves in a room specifically for them alone, away from people who are not infected. Isolation is a routine procedure in hospitals and healthcare facilities and a designated area known as the isolation ward is set up for the patients who have tested positive. As for those who are self-isolating themselves at home with the approval of concerned authorities, they need to follow certain protocol too. Not sharing household items such as utensils, towels, bedding, or other personal belongings with other members of the house is a must. It is important to prohibit all visitors and non-essential people from being in the house. It is also recommended that household members use a separate bedroom and bathroom and the infected person should eat and sleep in their room away from other household members.

  • Quarantine
    Quarantine aims to separate and restrict the movement of people who have been exposed to the Corona virus and observe if they develop any related symptoms. These people may have been exposed to the disease after coming in contact with a confirmed case of Covid -19 or travelled to an area with an active outbreak of the virus. These individuals are asymptomatic and hence self-quarantining allows health officials to closely monitor the development of symptoms, if any, while preventing further transmission of the virus. Those who are asked to self-quarantine will be asked to stay home and avoid contact with others for a period of 14 days. This includes avoiding even essential shopping, socializing, public places, and large crowds. Quarantine helps to limit the spread of the highly communicable disease, so ensure you self-monitor for signs of any symptoms and if you find your symptoms worsening, contact your primary healthcare provider or reach out to the government help-lines for medical care.

  • How is Social Distancing different from isolation and quarantine?
    Social distancing is to proactively avoid public places or locations and situations where close contact with others may occur. Unlike those who have self-quarantined or self-isolated, these individuals have not been exposed to the virus and are simply attempting to reduce risk of infection by being cautious. And now that we are discussing being cautious, don’t forget to secure your health and your finances with a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers you in difficult times.

Corona Virus poses serious health hazards to those who contract it and is highly contagious, hence isolation and quarantine are the necessity of the day. So stay home, stay safe and remember this too shall pass!

Disclaimer:  The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales

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