The CDC relaxed some of its COVID-19 guidance last week, including those relating to quarantining and test-to-stay in schools. Reasoning included both the access to vaccinations and natural immunity along with a reduced COVID-19 severity.
In a release that included the latest guidance, the CDC said with so many tools available, there is significantly less risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 compared to earlier in the pandemic.
“We also have a better understanding of how to protect people from being exposed to the virus, like wearing high-quality masks, testing, and improved ventilation,” said the CDC’s Greta Massetti, PhD, MPH, MMWR author. “This guidance acknowledges that the pandemic is not over, but also helps us move to a point where COVID-19 no longer severely disrupts our daily lives.”
The CDC is continuing to promote the importance of being up to date with vaccination.
However, the CDC is now saying those who are unvaccinated people or not up to date on boosters are no longer recommended to quarantine — which is the same guidance for anyone who is fully vaccinated.
Anyone exposed to COVID-19 is still recommended to wear a high-quality mask for 10 days and get tested on day 5.
As it applies to school, the test-to-stay models are no longer recommended for a child or teacher to remain in the classroom just because they are exposed to the virus. Similarly, schools will not have to do any contact tracing.
The CDC is also reiterating that regardless of vaccination status, anyone should isolate from others when they have COVID-19 for at least 5 days and should wear a high-quality mask when they must be around others at home and in public. Those with moderate illness or a weakened immune system are recommended to isolate for 10 days.
