When both partners have tested positive for COVID-19, the question of maintaining separate sleeping arrangements shifts from a medical necessity to a matter of comfort and practical symptom management. Isolation guidelines are designed to prevent the spread of the virus to uninfected people. Since both individuals already share the same active infection, the need for strict physical separation to prevent initial transmission is largely removed. The focus then turns to ensuring a supportive recovery environment for both.
Medical Guidance on Isolation
Public health guidance explains that the purpose of isolation is to separate sick people from healthy individuals to stop transmission. Since both people in this scenario are already infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the medical mandate for them to isolate from one another is generally waived. The viral exposure has already occurred, and they are sharing the same infection within the home environment.
Infected household members can typically share a common space, including a bedroom, without significantly altering the course of the infection for either person. Some experts note a theoretical concern that a person with a high viral load could potentially increase their partner’s viral exposure, but this is not a common reason for mandated separation. The greater concern remains preventing transmission to any uninfected individuals within the home or community. The couple should still adhere to the recommended isolation period, which often involves staying home for at least five days from the onset of symptoms or a positive test.
Managing Symptoms While Sharing Space
While medical isolation between two positive individuals is not required, adopting specific practices can help manage symptoms and promote better rest. Maintaining good air circulation is important, which can be achieved by opening a window or using an air purifier. This helps refresh the air and reduce the concentration of airborne respiratory droplets in the room.
It is recommended to stop sharing personal items, even though both people are sick. Each person should use their own towels, drinking glasses, utensils, and blankets, as the virus can transfer through contact with contaminated surfaces. Strict hand hygiene should be practiced by both individuals, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces in the bedroom or bathroom.
To maximize comfort and minimize disruption, couples can try to increase the physical distance between them in the bed, such as sleeping head-to-toe. If one partner is experiencing significantly disruptive symptoms like heavy coughing or night sweats, a temporary separation to a couch or spare room may be beneficial for ensuring high-quality rest. Getting sufficient restorative sleep is a major factor in supporting the immune response and overall recovery for both.
Situations Requiring Separate Sleeping Arrangements
There are certain circumstances where separate sleeping arrangements are advised for practical reasons, even if both partners are positive. A significant disparity in the severity of symptoms is one such instance, particularly if one person’s illness involves severe, disruptive symptoms like intense coughing, vomiting, or high fevers that could prevent the other person from resting. Prioritizing the recovery of the less symptomatic partner can ensure they are better equipped to provide care if the other person’s condition worsens.
Separation is also prudent if one partner is immunocompromised or has an underlying condition that puts them at a higher risk for severe illness. Although both are infected, an immunocompromised person may be more vulnerable to a higher viral load. Minimizing close-range exposure to a partner who is acutely ill is a sensible precaution.
Another factor is a large difference in the timing of infection; for instance, if one person is at the end of their isolation period and their partner has just tested positive. The newly infected individual is likely shedding a higher viral load, and separation can limit the prolonged exposure for the partner who is nearing recovery. Anyone with concerns about their specific risk factors should consult a primary care physician for tailored advice.