The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention anticipates we will continue to experience waves of COVID-19 in the United States. Learning to live with COVID-19 is an important aspect of moving closer to our ways of life before the pandemic. As a reminder for our residents and visitors, we are issuing information regarding frequently asked questions or concerns.
Exposure to someone with COVID-19
If you have been around someone who tested positive for COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website and use the Quarantine and Isolation Calculator. This tool will ask you a series of questions which will help determine when you can leave home, should get tested, and can stop wearing a mask around others.
Testing in Dare County
Dare County has a variety of locations that are able to test for the COVID-19 virus. For a current, full list of those locations, please visit www.darenc.com/COVIDtesting.
Individuals who need a documented test and are not sick, should contact The Outer Banks Testing Center for an appointment at 252.449.6175.
Testing at Home
Self-tests for COVID-19 give rapid results and can be taken anywhere, regardless of your vaccination status or whether or not you have symptoms.
If your test is positive, the test detected the virus and you have an infection. Tell your close contacts and use the Quarantine and Isolation Calculator to determine when you can leave home and stop wearing a mask. Testing positive with a home test is not reported to the State of North Carolina, if you need reportable test results, please contact your healthcare provider or your nearest testing center.
If your test is negative, the test did not detect the virus, but doesn’t rule out an infection. Some self-tests are designed to be used in a series (also known as serial testing). Consider repeating the test 24 to 48 hours later. Multiple negative tests increases the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
If you become Sick with COVID-19 symptoms
Get tested as soon as possible after your symptoms start. Treatments may be available for people with COVID-19 who are at risk for becoming very sick. Don’t delay: Treatment must be started early to be effective—some treatments must begin within 5 days of your first symptoms. Contact your healthcare provider right away if your test result is positive to determine if you are eligible.
As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people and pets in your home. If possible, you should use a separate bathroom. If you need to be around other people or animals in or outside of the home, wear a well-fitting mask.
Do not leave your house except for medical treatment, and wear a mask if you leave home or when you are around others. Use the Quarantine and Isolation Calculator to determine when you can leave home and stop wearing a mask.
Preventing COVID-19 Infections
Slow the spread with a COVID-19 vaccine, available to everyone 5 and older, and by taking simple steps to protect yourself, your family and your community. For more information on COVID-19, including vaccines, please visit www.darenc.com/covid19.