There is a difference between self-quarantine and self-isolation.
Self-isolation, according to ABC News, is when someone is ill and should be separated from others until they are no longer contagious.
Quarantine is different and deals with people who are well but have been exposed to an infectious disease, and through the illness' incubation period, which in the case of coronavirus, is expected to be about 14 days, ABC News reported.
Prepare for quarantines
There are things you can do now to prepare in case a quarantine is warranted if the coronavirus continues to spread.
Here is a checklist from NJ.com, Syracuse.com, The Department of Homeland Security and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some items may be familiar with other emergency kit preparation suggestions.
- Household cleaning spray or wipes
- Hand soap
- Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Tissues
- Toilet paper
- Feminine care products
- Detergent
- Dish soap
- Diapers
- A two-week supply of nonperishable food, snacks and water
- Formula
- Pet food
- Cat litter
- Prescription medications
- Vitamins that you normally take
- Over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and stomach treatments
- Fluids with electrolytes
- Batteries
- Electronic access to medical records or hard copies from your doctor
- A plan for other family members that you care for if you become sick
And while there is a shopping list to go through, don't forget entertainment, Syracuse.com reported. Have streaming services at the ready now and catch up on those shows and movies you may have missed if you're stuck at home for two weeks.
For more on planning from the CDC, click here.
For more from the Department of Homeland Security, click here.
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