On August 11, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance for persons exposed to the COVID-19 virus.
- Individuals who have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19 are no longer recommended to quarantine, regardless of vaccination status.
- After a COVID-19 exposure, all individuals should wear a high-quality mask for 10 days and get tested on day 5.
- Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home for at least 5 days and isolate themselves from others.
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- Individuals may end isolation after 5 days as long as they have been fever-free for more than 24 hours without the use of medication and all other symptoms have improved.
- It is recommended that individuals continue to avoid being around people who are more likely to get very sick from the virus until at least day 11, regardless of when their isolation ends.
- Individuals with a positive COVID test should wear a mask through day 10. If COVID-19 symptoms worsen after isolation, restart isolation to day 0.
- Persons with a weakened immune system should consult their doctor for further guidance before ending their isolation.
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Being up to date with vaccination is still the best prevention of serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 and its circulating variants.