General Isolation Guidelines

GENERAL ISOLATION GUIDELINES

If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you need to self-isolate to prevent spreading the virus to others. Symptoms of COVID-19 can be reviewed HERE.

When does isolation end?

If you test positive for COVID-19: The standard isolation period is 10 days. The isolation period can be shortened to five days if you are asymptomatic or your symptoms are improving, and you do not have a fever for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications.  If you meet these criteria, you can return to campus on day six or later.  Wear a well-fitted mask when around others through day 10. (Note: Your first day of symptoms is day “zero.”)     

  • If you had moderate illness (shortness of breath or trouble breathing) or severe illness (you were hospitalized), or you are immunocompromised, you should isolate through day 10.  
  • If you ended isolation but your COVID-19 symptoms recur or worsen, you should restart your isolation from day zero.  

Isolation guidelines:

  • Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms and can recover at home. 
  • To prevent spreading COVID-19 to others, it is important to STAY AT HOME for at least five days from onset of symptoms (or date of positive test if you are asymptomatic) and distance yourself from others.
  • You should isolate using a private room and bathroom if possible and avoid close contact with others.
  • You should NOT visit public areas or use public transportation for at least the first 5 days
  • You may leave isolation to get food, medicine or to seek medical care but must wear a well-fitted mask to do so.
  • If possible, avoid travel.
  • Though you are likely most infectious in the first 5 days, it is important to wear a well-fitted mask when in presence of others for the full ten days to decrease risk of spreading COVID-19.
  • Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask during the full 10 day isolation period
  • Avoid being around people who are at high risk.
  • Avoid sharing personal household items and wash them thoroughly after use.
  • Avoid eating around others.

Monitor your symptoms and stay in touch with your doctor. 

  • Contact the Marquette University Medical Clinic at 414-288-7184 or your primary care with worsening symptoms and with questions or concerns.
  • Get rest and stay hydrated. 
  • If you experience trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in your chest, confusion or difficulty staying awake, or bluish lips or face, please seek medical care immediately.

Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, going to the bathroom, and before eating or preparing food. 
  • You may use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available; make sure to cover all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Clean and disinfect all “high-touch” surfaces every day. 

  • High-touch surfaces include phones, remote controls, counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables.

Students: Enroll in the GetWellLoop online tool and mobile app

  • The GetWell Loop provides direct access to a Froedtert and The Medical College of Wisconsin care team via daily check-ins throughout your entire COVID-19 experience for students that are isolating within the state of Wisconsin.
  • Residence hall students that will be isolating in university isolation space will automatically enrolled into GetWellLoop.
  • Non-residence hall students who would like to enroll in the GetWellLoop should contact the Marquette University Medical Clinic for further instruction.

Students: Information on isolation spaces is provided by the university. If you are taking in-person classes, please contact your instructors to arrange alternate assignments, if possible, during this isolation period. Please note the attendance policy guidance. You can attend medical appointments and food service to get a grab and go meal while wearing a well-fitting mask.  

Marquette University Medical Clinic: 414-288-7184

After hours nurse hotline: 800-362-9900