Employee Benefit News for School, City and County Employers

5-day COVID-19 Isolation Dropped

Written by Erin Woulfe | Mar 7, 2024 4:26:33 PM

1.5 minute read

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued updated guidelines for individuals testing positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). The CDC now advises that those with COVID-19 no longer need to isolate at home for a mandatory five-day period. Instead, individuals can resume their daily activities once they have been fever-free for 24 hours without medication and show improvement in overall symptoms. However, it is still recommended that preventive measures, like frequent handwashing and surface cleaning, be followed for the next five days to minimize the spread of the virus.

This updated guidance aligns COVID-19 management with other respiratory illnesses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), making it easier for Americans to understand and implement. Similar approaches have been successfully implemented in other countries with no significant impact on the spread of COVID-19.

The most recent updates from the CDC reflect the advancements in safeguarding Americans against severe illness caused by COVID-19. The CDC also provides the following recommendations to help curb the spread of the virus:

  • Stay up to date with the latest version of the COVID-19 vaccine
  • Remember to cover your coughs and sneezes
  • Wash your hands regularly
  • Keep frequently touched surfaces clean
  • Improve ventilation by opening windows and using air purifiers

Individuals at a higher risk of severe complications from COVID-19, such as pregnant individuals or those with weakened immune systems, may need to take extra precautions. Additionally, the CDC advises adults aged 65 and above to consider getting a COVID-19 booster shot this spring to prepare for a potential increase in virus activity later in the summer. For any vaccination-related queries or concerns, individuals should consult their primary care physicians. Download the bulletin for more details.