The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its respiratory virus guidance, including the removal of the previously recommended five-day quarantine when an individual tests positive for COVID-19.
According to a CDC update, dated March 1, 2024: “As the 2023-2024 fall and winter virus season ends, it’s clear that the situation surrounding COVID-19 has changed. It is still an important health threat, but it is no longer the emergency that it once was, and its health impacts increasingly resemble those of other respiratory viral illnesses, including flu and RSV.”
Among the CDC’s updated recommendations:
- If you have respiratory virus symptoms – fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, etc. – stay home and away from others.
- If after 24 hours, your symptoms improve and you do not have a fever, you can return to normal activities with precautions, including wearing a mask, physical distancing and frequent handwashing/hygiene.
NEOMED employees and students should refer to the CDC guidelines for updated information on COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.
Read the CDC’s updated respiratory virus guidance