What is the key difference between isolation and quarantine?

Isolation limits the freedom of movement or action of a person or animal who is infected (or is reasonably suspected of being infected) with a communicable disease or condition. G.S. 130A-2(3a). Quarantine limits the freedom of movement or action of a person or animal who has been exposed (or is reasonably suspected of having been exposed) to a communicable disease or condition. Under North Carolina law, quarantine also can be used in two additional circumstances: (1) to limit access by a person or animal to an area or facility that may be contaminated with an infectious agent; or (2) to limit the freedom of movement or action of unimmunized persons in an outbreak. G.S. 130A-2(7a).

Topics - Local and State Government