Ravalli County Reduces Quarantine Times

Ravalli County Public Health has reduced quarantine times for many who have tested positive for COVID-19, according to Director Tiffany Webber. In her April 12 news release, Webber said that County Health Officer Dr. Carol Calderwood has approved adoption of two reduced times provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Of course, the original 14-day quarantine is still the best way to stop the spread of the disease. But, Webber and Calderwood say, since the COVID numbers have remained steady in Ravalli County, the two reduced quarantine times are now offered.

From the news release:
Allowable reduced quarantine are as follows:
10-day at-home quarantine. Does not require testing.
At-home quarantine for the first 10 days with remaining 4 days; adherence to consistent and correct masking, physical distancing including avoiding crowded areas and hand hygiene should be followed. Monitor for symptoms. Stay home if you develop symptoms and seek care.

7-day at-home quarantine with required Public Health clearance.
At-home quarantine for the first 7 days. PCR testing obtained on or after day 5 with negative result on day 7. Provided you remain free of symptoms, remaining 7 days; adherence to consistent and correct masking, physical distancing including avoiding crowded areas and hand hygiene should be followed. Monitor for symptoms. Stay home if you develop symptoms and seek care.

Those who have been fully vaccinated and become close contacts with a person who tests positive for COVID-19 are not required to quarantine - as long as they show no symptoms. However, if you are sick, stay home. Ravalli County had 12 new positive COVID-19 tests over the past weekend and there are 39 active cases being monitored by Public Health. Webber thanked the vaccine providers in the valley for the increased vaccination opportunities and said that if you have registered with Public Health's Notice of Intent and haven't yet received a call, phone 406 375-6672 to schedule an appointment.