In view of large number of asymptomatic cases being detected across the country, MoHFW has changed the guideline for home isolation. In earlier guideline, the patients should be clinically assigned as very mild/mild, moderate severe and accordingly admitted to (i) COVID Care Center, (ii) Dedicated COVID Health Center or (iii) Dedicated COVID Hospital respectively.
However, with asymptomatic cases are rising, MoHFW issued guideline has included asymptomatic cases as well as very mild and pre-symptomatic cases for home isolation. The guidelines also detailed about patients eligible for Home Isolation.
According to the guideline issued by MoHFW, for Home Isolation, the person should be clinically assigned as a very mild/presymptomatic/asymptomatic case by the treating medical officer. Patients suffering from immune compromised status (HIV, Transplant recipients, Cancer therapy etc.) are not eligible for home isolation. Elderly patients aged more than 60 years and those with co-morbid conditions such as Hypertension, Diabetes, Heart disease, Chronic lung/liver/ kidney disease, Cerebra-vascular disease etc. shall only be allowed home isolation after proper evaluation by the medical officer In-charge /Medical Officer. A care giver should be available to provide care on 24×7 basis. However, patients would have to fill in an undertaking on self-isolation and should follow home quarantine guidelines. The treating doctor should satisfy himself before allowing home isolation.
Moreover, patient need to download Arogya Setu App on mobile (available at: https://www.mygov.in/aarogya-setu- app/) and it should remain active at all times (through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi)
In case following symptoms, medical attention should be sought: Difficulty in breathing, Dip in oxygen saturation (SpO2 <95%) Persistent pain/pressure in the chest, Mental confusion or inability to arouse, Slurred speech/seizures, Weakness or numbness in any limb or face, Developing bluish discolorations of lips/face.
Patient under home isolation will stand discharged after 14days from the date of diagnosis. Thereafter, the patient will be advised to self-monitor their health for further 7 days. There is no need for testing after the home isolation period is over.
