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The NSW Government changed the rules about self-isolation on 14 October 2022.

Now you do not have to self-isolate if you test positive for COVID-19.

NSW Health still recommends you stay home if you test positive for COVID-19.

Staying home when you have COVID-19:

  • helps you recover
  • protects other people
  • stops the spread of COVID-19. 

What to do when you test positive for COVID-19

Register

If you tested positive on a rapid antigen test (RAT) you can register your result with Service NSW.

Registering your positive RAT means:

  • NSW Health can offer you support
  • you can access antiviral medicines if you are eligible.

Manage

Many people with COVID-19 can manage safely at home.

You can use the monitor your symptoms table to help you.

If you are concerned about your symptoms, you can call:

  • your GP
  • National Coronavirus Helpline - 1800 020 080
  • Healthdirect - 1800 022 222

You should call 000 if you:

  • feel very dizzy, drowsy or confused
  • are having trouble breathing
  • have chest pressure or pain lasting more than 10 minutes
  • feel like you might faint when you stand.

Avoid

To reduce the risk to others NSW Health recommends you:

  1. Stay home until you feel better.
  2. Don't visitpeople at high risk for at least 7 days.
    This means anyone in hospital or an aged or disability care facility.
  3. Wear a mask when indoors and on public transport, if you must leave your home.
  4. Avoid large gatherings and indoor crowded places, especially where you will be in contact with groups of people you don't live with.

Tell

Tell people that you live with, or spend a lot of time with, that you have COVID-19.

People you live with or spend a lot of time indoors with are at greatest risk of catching COVID-19 from you. You should tell then you have tested positive and try to separate from them as much as possible.

They should:


Resources

Current as at: Friday 4 November 2022
Contact page owner: Health Protection NSW