Submitted by lenka_kalvodova on 06/02/2021 - 21:36.

We are well aware that exchange during the current times poses challenges many of us have never had to deal with, which is why we’re bringing you this guide. From governmental and other useful contacts to delivery tips for your quarantine munchies, we hope we can make these strange times a little easier for you. Other than the guide below, don’t hesitate to have a look at this section of our website for general FAQs.

 

 

Restrictions in the Czech Republic have been based on the gov’t’s epidemiological risk assessment system (and yes, it is called ‘PES’ which translates as ‘DOG’ in English). You can find information in English about the rules applying to each level of the scheme here.

 

 

And here are some other useful general links to gov’tal websites:

 

Next, we bring a concise step-by-step guide, should you find yourself in quarantine (the precautionary process after having been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19) or self-isolation (after either displaying symptoms or having tested positive). While we hope that this situation does not arise for any of you, we also know that the virus does not discriminate, and it is better to be safe than sorry.

Quarantine

  1. You have been informed about a close contact with an infected person. This can happen either via the eRouška application, if you use it (not mandatory). In this case, it is your responsibility to contact the City of Prague Health Department. Another way of finding out is by receiving a call from the dept.

  2. Contact the City of Prague Health Department immediately. They should instruct you about the next steps, including length of quarantine and testing). Do not visit any medical facility personally unless told to do so by the authorities.

  3. You might be instructed to undertake a test some 5 days after the contact. In this case (close contact or symptoms), the test is free of charge.

  4. If you’re staying in the dormitories, contact the dormitory management immediately so they can assign you an isolated room.

  5. Or, if you’re staying in private accommodation, try your best to keep to your own bedroom (we are aware that not everyone is staying in a flat by themselves, and that you might even be sharing a bedroom) or another room that you’ve secluded for yourself in the flat/house.

  6. Contact your coordinator at the university. Do not go to any university premises if you have a suspicion of being infected.

  7. We know it might be difficult, but try to prepare a list of your close contacts (in contact without a face mask for at least 15 minutes without keeping a sufficient distance). You will provide it to the health department should you test positive.

  8. Please, inform those on the list of your situation, so they can monitor their health and limit their contact with others. This step is mandatory in case you are tested positive (beware, the hygienic station will most probably not do this for you and they will assign it to you as a responsibility if you test positive).

If you develop any symptoms which make you feel in danger, do not hesitate to call the emergency services (112 or 155). Do not forget to mention your suspicion of COVID-19 infection.

Please bear in mind that you could be sanctioned up to 3 mil. CZK (approximately 120 000 EUR) for breaking the quarantine. That includes going to public parts of the dormitories while having symptoms or having a positive test result!

 

Self-isolation

  1. You have tested positive after either ‘having a contact’, or displaying symptoms. All individuals with a positive PCR test result are submitted to an isolation for a period of 10 days starting from the sample collection.

  2. The isolation is lifted after 3 consecutive days without any symptoms.

  3. The minimum isolation period is 10 days.

  4. Similarly like above, having one’s own bedroom as well as facilities is preferred. However, as this is not the case for most of us, please bear in mind, amongst other rules, that:

- everyone in the household should abide by rules for hygiene

- you should wear a mask in the common areas

- you should wipe down any surfaces you use with an antibacterial disinfectant

- you should use your own towels, tea towels, and dishes

- all premises should be ventilated thoroughly and frequently

- frequent cleaning of all areas is advisable

 

 

Symptoms Characteristic to COVID-19 Disease:

  • Fever lasting longer than two days
  • Dry cough
  • Difficulties with breathing
  • Tiredness
  • Sore muscles
  • Loss of senses (taste, smell)
  • Severe headaches

 

 

To end on a more positive note, here are a few tips for delivery English-friendly delivery services:

You can also check the restaurants and fast foods in your area, as some of those places might have their own delivery service. Once again, please inform the delivery service in case you are quarantining!

 

 

 

On behalf of ESN CU Prague
Lenka Kalvodová, 6 February 2021