The CDC Updates COVID-19 Isolation Guidelines in Response to Changing Context
In a recent update, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revised its recommendations around COVID-19 isolation periods. The new guidance, which aligns COVID-19 with other respiratory illnesses like the flu and RSV, now suggests that individuals should isolate until they have been fever-free for a day.
Infectious disease experts have voiced their support for the updated guidelines, noting that they reflect the evolving understanding of COVID-19. The CDC emphasizes the importance of core prevention steps such as vaccination, hand hygiene, and cleaner air to reduce the risk of severe illness from respiratory viruses.
The updated recommendations also stress the importance of taking extra precautions for the five days following the end of isolation. Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should isolate until they have been fever-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours.
For high-risk individuals, immunocompromised individuals, and those over 65, antiviral medications like Paxlovid may be beneficial. To protect others, the CDC advises isolating from household members until fever-free for 24 hours, wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, and improving indoor air quality.
Dr. Schaffner, a leading expert, highlights the critical role of COVID-19 vaccination in preventing severe illness. He points out that the majority of COVID-19 patients hospitalized are unvaccinated. Taking these precautions and following the updated guidelines can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses in the community.
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