Close Contact COVID-19 in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

What is a Close Contact?

According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), a close contact of a COVID-19 case is defined as someone who has:

• Been within 1 meter of a confirmed COVID-19 case for at least 30 minutes, or
• Shared the same enclosed space with a confirmed COVID-19 case for at least 2 hours

What to Do If You're a Close Contact

If you've been identified as a close contact of a COVID-19 case, you should follow these steps:

1. Get tested for COVID-19 immediately. You should arrange for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test through an existing Swab and Send Home (SASH) provider or seek medical attention at one of the designated Swab and Send Home clinics or Combined Test Centres (CTC).
2. Self-isolate for 10 days from your last contact with the positive case. During this time, you should stay home and avoid contact with others, including family members.
3. Monitor your health for symptoms. If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.
4. Follow the instructions given by MOH. You will be given further instructions from MOH, such as when to get tested again or if you need to quarantine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when managing close contacts:

• Not getting tested immediately. Getting tested as soon as possible will help to identify and isolate potential cases early on, helping to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Not self-isolating properly. If you're a close contact, it's essential to self-isolate for the full 10 days to prevent infecting others.
• Ignoring symptoms. If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.
• Not following MOH instructions. MOH will provide you with specific instructions on what to do, such as when to get tested again or if you need to quarantine. It's important to follow these instructions carefully.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a close contact and a casual contact?

A close contact is someone who has been in close contact (within 1 meter for at least 30 minutes or shared the same enclosed space for at least 2 hours) with a confirmed COVID-19 case. A casual contact is someone who has had brief contact (less than 15 minutes) with a confirmed COVID-19 case, or who has been in the same location as a confirmed COVID-19 case but not in close proximity.

2. Do I need to get tested if I'm a casual contact?

You do not need to get tested if you're a casual contact unless you develop symptoms.

3. What should I do if I'm a close contact and I test negative?

You should continue to self-isolate for the full 10 days from your last contact with the positive case.

4. What should I do if I'm a close contact and I test positive?

You should follow the instructions given by MOH. This may include being isolated in a designated facility or at home.

5. How long do I need to quarantine for if I'm a close contact?

You need to quarantine for 10 days from your last contact with the positive case.

6. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include fatigue, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, and diarrhea.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Close Contact Definitions

Table 2: COVID-19 Symptoms

Table 3: Close Contact Management