Please use the guide below if you have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection or are concerned you may have COVID-19*

*Best viewed on a tablet or desktop

Courtesy of the Ministry of Health of Ontario

If no, it is less likely that you have a COVID-19 infection.

  • Please self-isolate until your symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours of gastrointestinal symptoms).

  • Your household does not need to self-isolate

 

If yes, it is highly likely you have COVID-19 or an upper respiratory infection. Given you are symptomatic you must self-isolate immediately. Please follow the guidance below.

Self-Isolation:

Regardless of your duration of self-isolation, for 10 days after symptom onset (or 20 days for immunocompromised individuals): maintain masking in public settings, do not visit or work in any highest risk setting, do not visit vulnerable individuals (e.g. immunocompromised individuals or seniors).

Do I Need a COVID-19 test?

  • Most individuals DO NOT need a COVID-19 test. If you are eligible to book a COVID-19 PCR test click here.

  • If you have access to a rapid antigen test you may use one. Click here for instructions on how to perform your test at home:

    • If you test POSITIVE on a rapid antigen test you DO NOT need a PCR test to confirm the diagnosis. You must fulfill the self isolation as above.

    • If you test NEGATIVE on a rapid antigen test, please be aware a negative rapid antigen test does not mean you do not have COVID-19. If you have any symptoms, you must still self isolate as you have an upper respiratory infection.

How to Manage COVID-19 or Viral Upper Respiratory Illnesses at Home:

Please click on the button above for a handout on how to manage upper respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19, at home. Although we initially designed this handout for our younger patients, it still applies to those who may be older but young at heart.

Who Do I Need to Notify?

  • Notify your workplace

  • Notify any close contacts you have had in the past 48 hours prior to your symptom onset and have them visit: Ontario.ca/exposed

  • Public health does not require individuals to have a doctor’s note to return to childcare, school or a workplace after a COVID-19 infection or exposure. Click here to access a patient self-attestation form (courtesy of the OMA) intended to be used instead of a doctor’s note to return to childcare, school or a workplace, if required

  • If you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19 symptoms or who has tested positive for COVID-19 (PCR or rapid antigen test) self-monitor for symptoms.