Self-isolation after travel
Photo: https://www.vperemen.com, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Self-isolation is recommended for travellers who may have been exposed to certain infectious diseases; it was recommended in many places for COVID-19 around 2020–2022. Breaking your self-isolation could spread the disease to other people.
This page is mainly about voluntary self-isolation. Although the same principles apply if you are in compulsory quarantine or isolating because you do have the disease, you must then follow all the official instructions that you have been given, including any monitoring arrangements, or you risk deportation, a fine or a prison sentence.
How long to self-isolateFollow the advice from relevant authorities. The amount of time you should self-isolate depends on what disease you want to avoid spreading.
PrepareFind out what procedures are in place. Do you need to pre-register your travel history and lodging plans before you arrive? Will you go through a health check at the border?
IsolateTake your temperature twice a day. If you develop symptoms during self-isolation, you should contact your healthcare provider by telephone.
Get what you needWhat you need to have and to do depends upon your situation. Are you self-isolating at home or in a hotel room? Do you live in the city, in the suburbs, in the country?
Stay activeWake up in the morning as usual, have regular meals, plan your day.) so the time doesn't feel wasted and you avoid the sense of one day aimlessly blurring into the next.
Going outIf you break your self-isolation, you may spread the infection to anyone you see, and even to people who touch the same doorknob or enter the same room later. Before leaving, consider whether you truly need to leave.
Ending your isolationThe ideal case is that you stay isolated for the recommended period, stay perfectly healthy, and then you're done.
More information
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Self-isolation after travel" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: https://www.vperemen.com, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons