CDC: Quarantine and Isolation

AUTHORITY: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

DATE PRODUCED: Last Reviewed September 29, 2017

TYPE: Info Sheet

THE QUESTIONS IT ANSWERS: 

• What’s the difference between quarantine and isolation?

SHORT DESCRIPTION: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines quarantine and isolation. Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.