When to Self-Isolate? And Why?

After traveling from abroad or after close contact during a pandemic, there are things we must do, namely quarantine or self-isolation. However, with the decrease of Covid-19 cases, it makes us forget about the importance of this key step in curbing the spread of pandemic. You may ask, how important is it to self-quarantine? And when is the best time to self-quarantine? You might get the answer from the following explanation.

When We Do Self-quarantine

You must be wondering, when is the right time to do self-isolation. In short, you do not need to quarantine every time, but only a certain time. For example, when you test positive for Covid-19 with mild symptoms, or when you are in close contact with a Covid-19 positive person.

Then, there is also another main factor whether you should do self-isolation or not, long or international travel. After traveling from another city or country, it is highly advised or even mandatory for you to do a quarantine. This is done because there is a possibility that you are exposed to Covid-19 while on the trip and might be without any symptoms. Therefore, you need to self-quarantine as a step to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19. 

Quarantine Duration

The maximum duration of self-quarantine recommended by the CDC is 14 days. During the quarantine period, there are some activities or important things that are recommended such as not using shared items, not leaving the area of the house or room, not being allowed to receive guests, and always keeping a distance from others.

In Indonesia, based on the amended Covid-19 Task Force Decision Letter No. 20 of 2021, if you have traveled from abroad, you are required to follow self-quarantine for 5 days if you have just received the 1st dose of vaccine. For those who have been fully vaccinated, you are only required to undergo quarantine for 3 days. For students, migrant workers, and government employees, can quarantine with the cost borne by the government. Indonesian citizens aside from those mentioned earlier and foreign nationals can quarantine at hotels recommended by Covid-19 Task Force.  You can see the full list of hotels or accommodations that provide self-isolation facilities here. After being quarantined for four days, you will undergo a PCR test. If the PCR test results confirm you are positive, then you will be taken to a centralized isolation facility for those with mild symptoms, or to a hospital if your symptoms are moderate or severe.

What to Consider During Quarantine

To conduct self-isolation, there are several things that need to be considered including:

1. Always wear a mask and discard the used mask properly.

2. Don't travel outside the quarantine area.

3. If you feel symptoms, take advantage of telemedicine

4. Always keep a distance from other people or family members as far as one meter.

5. Do a daily body temperature check

6. Avoid using shared cutlery or other equipment.

7. Always keep clean and eat healthy food.

In addition, it is also important for you to implement health protocols. In fact, after the quarantine period is over, including washing hands, using masks, maintaining distance, avoiding eating together, staying away from crowds, and reducing mobility. This is done so that you can reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19 after traveling.

[How To Apply For Covid-19 Controlled-Isolation Facilities]

So, as you now know, self-quarantine is very important in controlling the spread of the Coronavirus. Well, another thing that is no less important during the pandemic period to register vaccination through Jakarta Covid Response in JAKI. Download the app through the Google Play Store or App Store.