Close Contacts of COVID Cases in Singapore: What to Do?

If you have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself and others.

Immediate Actions to Take as a Close Contact

Step 1: Quarantine Immediately

• Immediately isolate yourself from others.
• Stay in a separate room or area, away from household members or roommates.
• Avoid going outside the house, except for essential activities like seeking medical attention.

Step 2: Notify Authorities

• Contact the Ministry of Health (MOH) at 1800-333-9999 to report your status as a close contact.
• You will be advised on further steps, including testing and monitoring requirements.

Step 3: Get Tested

• Arrange a COVID-19 test as soon as possible.
• This will determine if you have been infected with the virus.

Step 4: Monitor Your Health

• Pay attention to any symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and shortness of breath.
• Monitor your temperature and oxygen levels regularly.
• If you experience any worsening symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Step 5: Follow Isolation Instructions

• Adhere strictly to the isolation period as advised by MOH.
• Typically, close contacts must isolate for 10 days from their last exposure to the positive case.
• Monitor your health during isolation and get tested on the required days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Quarantine: Failure to isolate can put others at risk and prolong the spread of the virus.
• Delaying Testing: Getting tested promptly is crucial to timely diagnosis and isolation.
• Not Monitoring Symptoms: Ignoring symptoms can lead to delayed medical attention and potential complications.
• Breaching Isolation: Leaving isolation before the specified period increases the risk of transmission.
• Not Informing Close Contacts: Failure to notify others who may have been exposed can result in further spread.

Close Contacts in Different Scenarios

Unvaccinated Close Contact of a Vaccinated or Boosted Individual:

• Quarantine for 7 days, subject to testing on Day 3 and Day 7.
• If you develop symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Fully Vaccinated Close Contact of an Unvaccinated Individual:

• Quarantine for 5 days, subject to testing on Day 2 and Day 5.
• If you develop symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Boosted Close Contact:

• No quarantine or testing required, unless you develop symptoms.

FAQs about Close Contacts of COVID-19 Cases

1. How long should I quarantine as a close contact?

• Duration varies depending on your vaccination status and the infected individual's status. Refer to the table above for specific guidelines.

2. What if I'm a close contact who lives with an elderly or vulnerable person?

• Take extra precautions to avoid transmitting the infection. Wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and frequently disinfect common areas.

3. Can I go to work if I'm a close contact?

• No, you should isolate yourself or work from home for the specified quarantine period.

4. What should I do if I develop symptoms of COVID-19 while in isolation?

• Seek medical attention immediately. Inform your healthcare provider that you are a close contact of a positive case.

5. How can I get my isolation order lifted early?

• In some cases, you may be eligible for early release from isolation if you test negative on Day 3 or Day 5. Consult with your healthcare provider for specific criteria.

6. Is it safe to see my family after my isolation period ends?

• Yes, if you have completed the quarantine period and tested negative on the required days, it is generally safe to resume normal activities.

Tables for Close Contacts of COVID-19 Cases

Table 1: Quarantine and Testing Requirements for Close Contacts

Table 2: Symptoms of COVID-19

Table 3: Risks of COVID-19 in Close Contacts

Table 4: Preventative Measures for Close Contacts