Exposure to COVID-19
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Exposure to COVID-19 is when a person has spent time within close physical range of a person who has tested positive for or is believed to be exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 or carrying the SARS-CoV-2 virus asymptomatically. A person who has been exposed is at risk for developing COVID-19, though this will not necessarily occur.[1] Recommended actions for those who have been exposed include self-quarantine for up to 14 days following the date of exposure, testing, and monitoring for symptoms.
An exposed person can learn about their exposure if informed directly by the person who exposed them or by contact tracing before developing symptoms, thereby preventing oneself from exposing others. Digital contact tracing allows those who might have exposed another to anonymously alert those who have been exposed.
Definition[edit]
There is no exact period of time or distance scientifically proven at which transmission cannot occur.
The CDC defines exposure as spending 15 minutes or longer within six feet of an infected person, either consecutive or cumulative within a day, though transmission has been documented at greater distances and in shorter periods of time.[2][3] The CDC also considers one to be exposed if they are within the vicinity of an infected person who coughs or sneezes, as transmission in this manner has been reported. Some variants are also more transmissible under conditions involving less time exposure to an infected person.
Transmission is more likely to occur when an exposure takes place indoors than outdoors. Increased ventilation of an indoor space reduces the likelihood of transmission.
Special situations[edit]
In certain situations, one who has been exposed by being in proximity of a COVID-19 vector is less likely to contract the virus and may not need to quarantine.
Healthcare workers[edit]
Healthcare workers who work with covid patients are routinely within close proximity of those who have the virus. However, this is not considered an exposure requiring self-quarantine, as they are generally wearing personal protective equipment. Healthcare workers only need to self-quarantine if they test positive or develop symptoms.
Vaccinated persons[edit]
A fully vaccinated person who is exposed to COVID-19 need not quarantine unless experiencing symptoms.
Less likely transmission[edit]
The likelihood of transmission is lower under certain circumstances, such as outdoors or when a mask is worn by one or both parties involved. However, the CDC still considers this an exposure, thereby requiring testing and quarantine.
References[edit]
- ↑ "Can You Be Around Someone with COVID-19 (or Exposed) and Not Get It?". Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic. December 4, 2020.
- ↑ DeMarco, Cynthia. "What counts as COVID-19 exposure?". MD Anderson Cancer Center.
- ↑ Malosh, Ryan. "An epidemiologist explains the new CDC guidance on 15 minutes of exposure and what it means for you". The Conversation.
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