As Omicron cases increased across India, the Union Health Ministry released new guidelines for home isolation of mild and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients on Wednesday. After at least 7 days of testing positive and no fever for 3 consecutive days, patients in home isolation will be released and their isolation will be lifted. As per the health ministry, re-testing is not required after the home isolation period has been completed.
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Treatment for patients with mild /asymptomatic disease in home isolation
- Patients must be in communication with a treating Medical Officer and promptly report in case of any deterioration.
- The patient must continue the medications for other co-morbidities/illnesses after consulting the treating Medical Officer.
- Patients may utilize the teleconsultation platform made available by the district/state administration including the e-Sanjeevani teleconsultation platform.
- Patients to follow symptomatic management for fever, running nose, and cough, as warranted.
- Patients may perform warm water gargles or take steam inhalation thrice a day.
- If fever is not controlled with a maximum dose of Tab. Paracetamol 650 mg four times a day, consult the treating doctor
- Information floating through social media mentioning non-authentic and non-evidence-based treatment protocols can harm patients. Misinformation leads to the creation of panic and in turn undertaking tests and treatment which are not required has to be avoided.
- Do not rush for self-medication, blood investigation, or radiological imaging Ike chest X-ray or chest CT scan without consultation of your treating Medical Officer.
- Steroids are not indicated in mild disease and shall not be self-administered. Overuse & Inappropriate use of steroids may lead to additional complications.
- Treatment for every patient needs to be monitored individually as per the specific condition of the patient concerned and hence generic sharing of prescriptions shall be avoided.
- In case of falling oxygen saturation or shortness of breath, the person may require hospital admission and shall seek immediate consultation of their treating Medical Officer/surveillance team /Control room.
When to seek medical attention
- Patients / Caregivers will keep monitoring their health. Immediate medical attention must be sought if serious signs or symptoms develop. These could include-
- Unresolved High-grade fever (more than 100° F for more than 3 days)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Dip in oxygen saturation (Sp02 < 93% on room air at least 3 readings within 1 hour) or respiratory rate >24/ min
- Persistent pain/pressure in the chest, ‘Mental confusion or inability to arouse,
- Severe fatigue and myalgia
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