Isolate (quarantine) refers to the practice of separating individuals who may have been exposed to a contagious disease, such as COVID-19, to prevent its spread. This measure is often used to protect public health by ensuring that those who might be infected do not come into contact with others. During isolation, individuals are typically advised to stay at home or in a designated facility for a specific period, usually 14 days. This allows time to monitor for symptoms and reduces the risk of transmitting the disease to others in the community.