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What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

Last updated March 4, 2024.

Available languages: Español

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Stay home to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19

If you have a positive COVID-19 viral test, or have symptoms, stay home until your symptoms improve and you have been fever free (without medication) for 24 hours. People most at risk for severe illness, including those older than 65 years and people with weakened immune systems, may want to consider more precautions. When you go back to your normal activities, take added precaution over the next five days, such as taking additional steps for cleaner air, hygiene, masks, physical distancing, and/or testing when you will be around other people indoors.

 

COVID-19 treatment is available

COVID-19 treatment can keep you from getting very sick. Medicine for COVID-19 works best if it is taken within a few days of when you start to feel sick, so it’s important to seek treatment fast. Treatment is available across Colorado, even if you do not have a regular health care provider or insurance.

 

Notify your contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19

It’s important to let your contacts know they may have been exposed to COVID-19 so that they can protect themselves and those around them. If you work in a high risk workplace, such as a health care facility or school, let your employer know you have tested positive for COVID-19 so they can implement disease control measures if necessary.

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 should take additional precautions for 10 full days after exposure. 

People who have been exposed to COVID-19 should get tested five days after being exposed, even if they are up to date on COVID-19 vaccines.

Anybody who feels symptoms after exposure to COVID-19 should get tested and ask a health care provider about treatment

 

Monitor your symptoms

If you test positive for COVID-19, you should monitor your symptoms for the duration of your illness. People with mild illness may be able to recover at home without seeing a health care provider.

If your symptoms get worse (e.g., it is hard to breathe), or if you are an older adult or have an underlying medical condition, call a health care provider or nurse line to find out what to do.

 

For immediate assistance, questions, or concerns, please contact the following lines based on your needs: 

CO Help: For general questions about COVID-19, call (303) 389-1687 or (877) 462-2911. Languages to answer questions include English, Spanish (Español), Mandarin (普通话), and more.

2-1-1 Colorado: 2-1-1 is a confidential and multilingual service connecting people to vital resources across the state. Call 2-1-1 or (866) 760-6489 or text your zip code to 898-211.

Colorado Crisis Services: We provide free, confidential, professional, and immediate support for any mental health, substance use or emotional concern, 24/7/365. Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255 to speak to a trained professional.