You've felt that first tingle of a sore throat. Or, you've been hit with a headache that's knocked you out for an entire day.
After getting tested, you find out — you're COVID-positive.
We may be two years into a pandemic with restrictions and lockdowns easing across the country, but that doesn't mean COVID-19 isn't still circulating.
Here are some things to think about that will help you get through it.
I tested positive. What happens now?
Isolate immediately
From the moment you test positive for COVID-19, you need to self-isolate, stay at your home or accommodation and remain separated from people for at least 7 full days from the date you had your test.
Unless it's for medical care, an emergency or an allowed purpose, you cannot leave your house or accommodation.
If you live with other people, NSW Health recommends avoiding common areas, sleeping alone and using a separate bathroom if these options are available to you.
But if you can't avoid using common areas: disinfect surfaces you touch and try to avoid occupying the same room as another member of the household.
Let your contacts know
You'll need to inform people you've recently been in contact with of your positive test, and advise them to monitor their symptoms.
Under the national cabinet definition, you are a close contact if you:
- live in the same house as someone who tests positive
- spent 4 hours or longer with someone in a home, or health or aged care environment
- are determined as one by your state or territory health department
Different states and territories have different requirements for close contacts, so visit the health department website of your location to see what rules apply to you.
How do I manage my symptoms?
The Australian Department of Health says the common symptoms you should expect include a headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, fever and loss of taste or smell.
Some people can contract COVID-19 without experiencing symptoms at all.
Queensland Health advises the following to manage these symptoms at home:
- get lots of rest
- drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- take an over-the-counter pain medicine, like paracetamol or ibuprofen
- update your family and friends with your symptoms over the phone
Pro-tip: Prepare a COVID pack ahead of time in case you need to isolate, so you'll already have everything at home if you test positive.
In a small number of people, symptoms may worsen and require hospital care.
According to NSW Health, you should call triple-0 immediately if you develop the following severe symptoms:
- severe dizziness
- severe drowsiness or confusion
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing or finishing sentences due to breathlessness
- chest pressure or chest pain lasting more than 10 minutes
- being unable to stand
How long am I contagious for?
The Department of Health advises the infectious period varies from person to person.
Generally, people are considered to be infectious from 48 hours before symptoms start.
In high-risk settings, they may be considered infectious from 72 hours before symptoms start.
How long does COVID-19 last?
People with mild illness are considered to be recovered after 7 days, if they have been asymptomatic or have not developed any new symptoms during this time.
Whereas people at higher risk of serious illness may take weeks to recover.
If a person develops long-term health problems caused by COVID-19, symptoms most commonly continue for 2 to 8 weeks after infection.
Remember, self-isolation goes beyond physical wellbeing
Among Ibuprofen and herbal teas, your COVID kit should also include activities to keep yourself occupied.
Books, puzzles, a series to binge or games you can play by yourself are all things you can do to pass the time while you're on the mend.
