Tamworth coronavirus: self-isolation period forces Sara Crowe and husband Rick to stay apart together

Sara Crowe's family home in Tamworth seems unremarkable, her little boys Koby and Cooper FaceTime their father Rick on his business trip in the US.

Except Rick isn't in the US, he's self-isolated in the room next door.

The family haven't physically seen Rick since he landed. He's settled in for the 14-day mandated self-isolation period for overseas travellers who may have been exposed to coronavirus [covid-19].

"He really struggles because he can hear us, he finds it difficult that he can't be part of the family unit but can talk to the boys on FaceTime, which is bizarre," Mrs Crowe said.

"Rick has travelled a lot for work his whole life, so distance is something we're used to, but it's weird because he's still in the house."

While the family is at work and school, Rick slips out of his bedroom wearing a mask and gloves.

Anything he touches on his way outside has to be disinfected, he won't even sit on the lounge to avoid the risk.

Friday marked Day 5, and with no symptoms of covid-19 there's a long week ahead.

The weekend posed its own challenge because with the boys at home, Rick can't leave his room.

The bedroom with ensuite has been fitted-out with its own creature comforts, a toaster, a kettle and snacks.

At meal times a rap on the door indicates Mrs Crowe has delivered dinner. While the boys enjoy bath time, Rick grabs the plate.

Self-isolation with a family is manageable, but it is weird, Mrs Crowe said.

"It's really hard to explain, it's a dynamic shift and it does put pressure on one parent to be doing everything all the time," she said.

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"It touches on mental health, so you have to make sure you call out for help when you need it.

"Rick is still getting outside for fresh air, he's still engaging in life, talking to people, working and participating in the world even though he's isolated from it."

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