Who has to Isolate?

People who are confirmed to have COVID-19 via an at home test, rapid test, or PCR, or are showing symptoms of COVID-19 and are getting tested or waiting for test results need to isolate regardless of their vaccination status.

When to Isolate:

As of May 11, 2023 if you test positive for COVID-19, per NYS Department of Health guidance you should:

1. Stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home.
2. Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask. For travel guidance, see CDC’s Travel webpage.
3. People who are moderately or severely ill or immunocompromised should isolate for ten days.
4. Anyone who cannot or will not wear a mask should isolate for ten days.
5. For more information on how to isolate, please click the link provided: Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19

Ending Isolation:

If you are asymptomatic or symptoms are resolving, isolation may end after completing five full days. Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public

Testing to end isolation is not required. More information on ending isolation can be found on the website Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19, starting with the section "Ending Isolation."

For those hospitalized or immunocompromised, use the following website: Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19 for recommendations on how to end isolation in the section titled "Ending Isolation."

PLEASE NOTE: New York State has created an Affirmation of Isolation Form Found Here that you can fill out, print, and show to your employer. This form may be used for isolation release, isolation leave benefits, or New York Paid Family Leave COVID-19 claims as an individual Order for Isolation issued by the New York State Department of Health or the relevant County's Commissioner of Health or designee.

The Orange County Health Commissioner has issued a standing mandatory isolation order, which applies to all Orange County residents who have tested positive for COVID-19. CLICK HERE for the standing isolation order to provide to your employer if needed.