Separation also applies to how you live in the home while the situation is being addressed.

If the affected room is commonly used — like a bedroom, home office, bathroom, or kitchen — it’s important to modify daily routines to minimize further exposure and avoid disturbing the isolation barriers.

If a Bedroom or Home Office is Impacted:

• Relocate living, sleeping, and working activities to a clean, unaffected part of the home.
• If relocation is not immediately possible, limit the time spent in the impacted room to absolute essentials.
• Keep entry to the isolated area to a minimum to avoid disturbing containment materials and increasing cross-contamination risks.

If a Bathroom is Impacted:

• Ideally, avoid using the affected bathroom altogether.
• If necessary to use:
  • Limit frequency of use.
  • Use exhaust fans during and after use if available.
  • Clean surfaces with a mild disinfectant after each use to minimize moisture and microbial buildup.
  • Keep the bathroom door closed at all times.

If a Kitchen is Impacted:

• Discontinue use of the kitchen immediately to avoid contaminating food and eating surfaces.
• Set up a temporary food preparation space elsewhere:
  • Use a mini-fridge, microwave, or electric hot plate if needed.
  • Prepare simple meals that require minimal handling.
  • Use bottled water or a filtered water source if there is concern about water supply quality.
  • Use disposable utensils and plates when possible to avoid the need for additional cleaning in contaminated zones.

Adapting daily life may feel inconvenient, but temporary disruption protects long-term health and helps preserve the cleanliness of the rest of the home during recovery.