US health officials have dropped the 5-day isolation period for COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revised their guidelines to advise people with mild symptoms to return to work or regular activities if their symptoms have been improving and they have been fever-free for a day.
Driving the news: The CDC says its decision is fueled by far fewer hospitalizations and deaths associated with COVID-19 in the United States.
- The CDC still recommends that people stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine, practice good hygiene and take steps to have cleaner air.
- There is no change to guidelines for nursing homes and healthcare facilities.
What they’re saying: “Today’s announcement reflects the progress we have made in protecting against severe illness from COVID-19,” said CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen. “However, we still must use the common sense solutions we know work to protect ourselves and others from serious illness from respiratory viruses—this includes vaccination, treatment, and staying home when we get sick.”
