What is home quarantine?

During home quarantine, a person self-isolates at home (or elsewhere): they may not have physical contact with other people for a period of time. People who are self-isolating also need to follow certain guidelines, such as measuring their temperature twice a day and maintaining social distance, i.e. staying 1.5 metres away from other household members. In case of health problems, they should call the municipal health service (GGD) immediately. The GGD supports individuals in home quarantine and provides tailored advice.

The purpose of self-isolation at home is to monitor the health of people in quarantine and their loved ones, and to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

When should someone be self-isolating at home?

People self-isolate at home if there is a risk that they have contracted an infectious virus that could threaten others. They do not necessarily have symptoms at that time. Infectious diseases sometimes spread before people feel ill. If someone develop symptoms and becomes ill, staying in isolation prevents the further spread of the disease.

Effective measure

Self-isolating at home is an effective measure to prevent the spread of an infectious disease. The measure is also used in other cases. Previous experiences with self-isolation at home show that people take their responsibility seriously and that the collaboration with the GGD runs smoothly. The measure has a major impact on those concerned and their loved ones, and is therefore implemented after careful consideration. People experience self-isolation as more acceptable than quarantine in a hospital or other healthcare facility.

Guidelines during quarantine

The GGD will provide quarantine guidelines to those in self-isolation, such as keeping a distance of 1.5 metres from other household members, ensuring good ventilation and not receiving visitors or visiting other people. People are allowed to go outside briefly for some well-needed exercise. They are only allowed to do this individually. They must wear a medical face mask and keep 1.5 metres away from people they encounter.

Health check

People who are self-isolating measure their temperature twice a day. They report their temperature measurements to the GGD once a day. The GGD will contact them daily. It is also important that people who are self-isolating pay close attention to their health. If they develop any symptoms, they must contact the GGD immediately.