How do you determine if you might be exposed?

[Frustratedlady]

Yesterday, I went to the beauty shop. A bit ago, I received a call from my hairdresser that she had been contacted that she had been exposed to someone who tested positive. It wasn't her customer, but the woman was in the shop.

Of course, she touched me to wash my hair, cut my hair and set it. However, she did wear a mask, as did I. Also, her customers who are generally older, use a shampoo/chair set-up they have incorporated in a separate room from the rest of the shop for those of us who are afraid of contracting COVID. Except for entering/leaving, I am far away from anyone else in the shop.

My hairdresser has to wait 72 hours before she can be tested to find out if she is positive, but was told she would have to quarantine for 14 days. She called to let me know, which I appreciate. However, will I have to quarantine for 14 days, as well? I have a doctor's appt. on Friday. Should I keep it?

I'm thinking I am down the shoestring...just don't know if I'm tied to this chain, or what?

[TreasonousBastard]

1. In a sensible world, you would quarantine just to be sure, and if everyone else did, this thing...

would be over in a snap.

But, it's not a rational world, so just call your doctor and get his or her advice.

[0rganism]

2. simple answer: if you have been out in public, you might be exposed.

this disease has poisoned the commons, no one is safe
if you aren't isolated to a trusted bubble of covid-free associates, you might be exposed

definitely reduce your external interactions. i think, if your doctor offers a "telemedicine" option and it can work for you (i.e. no hands-on treatments or diagnostics required) go for that instead of an in-person visit.

[LisaL]

3. Call the doctor with whom you have an appointment with and let them know.

They might tell you not to come in.

[Frustratedlady]

4. I just called the doctor's office and explained the situation to them.

The person who tested positive was in the shop the day or so before I was on Tuesday. My hairdresser was not near her...she wasn't her customer. Both of us wore a mask yesterday (Tuesday) so they said I should be OK unless I started to show symptoms. Then, I should cancel.

It's a crap shoot any way you look at it. I've quarantined myself since last February with the exception of dr/hair appointments. I'm hoping a one-shot deal doesn't blow all that caution.

Thanks for the comments.