Question 1

What should I do after being exposed to COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

After COVID-19 exposure, monitor for symptoms for 10 days, consider testing 3-5 days after exposure, wear a high-quality mask around others, and follow CDC guidelines. Our assessment tool provides personalized recommendations based on your specific exposure details and health factors.

Question 2

How long after flu exposure do symptoms appear?

Accepted Answer

Flu symptoms typically appear 1-4 days after exposure, with an average of 2 days. During this incubation period, you may be contagious even without symptoms. Our tool helps you understand your specific risk timeline and when to watch for symptoms.

Question 3

When should I get tested after respiratory exposure?

Accepted Answer

Testing timing depends on the pathogen. For COVID-19, test 3-5 days after exposure for most accurate results. For flu, testing should occur as soon as possible after symptoms start, ideally within 3-4 days of symptom onset. Our assessment provides specific testing recommendations based on your exposure type and risk factors.

Question 4

What counts as close contact for respiratory illness?

Accepted Answer

Close contact generally means being within 6 feet of an infected person for 15 minutes or more over 24 hours. However, risk varies by pathogen, ventilation, mask use, and other factors. Our tool evaluates all these variables to assess your specific exposure risk.

Question 5

Do I need to quarantine after COVID exposure if vaccinated?

Accepted Answer

Current CDC guidelines don't require quarantine for vaccinated individuals after COVID exposure if asymptomatic. However, you should wear a mask, monitor for symptoms, and test 3-5 days after exposure. Our tool provides updated guidance based on your vaccination status and other risk factors.

Question 6

How accurate is this respiratory exposure assessment?

Accepted Answer

Our assessment is based on CDC guidelines and peer-reviewed research on respiratory pathogen transmission. It considers multiple factors including exposure duration, distance, ventilation, and host risk factors. However, it's informational only and not a substitute for medical advice from healthcare professionals.

Question 7

Is this tool a substitute for medical advice?

Accepted Answer

No, this tool provides informational guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. It does not represent the views of any public health authority or employer. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical decisions and follow guidance from your local health department.

Question 8

What information do I need to complete the assessment?

Accepted Answer

You'll need details about your exposure (pathogen type, setting, duration, distance, ventilation) and your health factors (age, vaccination status, health conditions). The assessment takes 1-3 minutes and doesn't require any personal identifying information. Your data is processed locally and never stored.

Safe by Design

Community Respiratory Exposure Assessment

Free COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Exposure Calculator — Evidence-based guidance for respiratory pathogen exposure evaluation to help you understand your risk and next steps.

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