If you are a COVID-19 ‘close contact’
If you develop symptoms such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain, call triple zero (000) immediately. Tell the operator, and the paramedics on arrival, if you have COVID-19.
Who is a 'close contact'?
State and territory governments decide on the definition of a close contact and there are differences between them. Please check the definition made by the government of the state or territory that you are in.
You are generally a close contact of someone who has COVID-19 if:
- you are living with someone who has COVID-19; or
- have spent a lot of time indoors with someone who has COVID-19; or
- under exceptional circumstances determined by states or territories
What should I do if I am a close contact of someone who has COVID-19?
If you are a close contact of someone who has COVID-19, you should follow the close contact recommendations of the state or territory that you are in.
The recommendations will most likely include wearing a mask, getting tested, working or studying from home, and avoiding high-risk settings and having contact with people at risk of severe illness for a period of time.
Do I need to isolate if I am a close contact?
If you are a close contact of someone who is a confirmed case of COVID-19, you do not need to isolate. But you should follow the recommendations of the state or territory you live in.
Related topics
How to isolate or quarantine
Isolation and quarantine help to protect you by stopping people from exposing, or possibly exposing, you to COVID-19. Follow these steps if you have COVID-19 or are a close contact of someone with COVID-19.
Local advice by state and territory
Some COVID-19 advice may differ between states and territories, such as isolation and quarantine guidance, and vaccination rules.
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Last reviewed: February 2023
