CDC still recommends 5-day COVID isolation

But plan to drop 5-day guideline may be in works

PHOENIX – Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 or believe they have contracted the virus but have yet to test for it are still being advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to isolate − but for a shorter period.

This could change as the Washington Post first reported in early February about plans from the CDC to drop the five-day isolation period that has been in place since 2021. The proposed new guidelines would mean that individuals would no longer be advised to isolate before returning to school or work. The proposal would align COVID-19 with the isolation recommendations for influenza or other respiratory viruses. However, the CDC has yet to confirm the report, and no changes to current guidelines have been made.

California and Oregon made changes to their guidelines in January that are similar to the reported proposal.

The CDC’s COVID-19 isolation recommendations have been unchanged since 2021 when the agency scaled down the recommended isolation period length.

The agency advises people who test positive for the disease to stay home for at least five days to reduce the chances of being contagious and spreading the virus to others.

For sick individuals who believe they have COVID-19 but have yet to test positive or those who were exposed to COVID-19, the agency also recommends isolating and getting tested.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

The CDC’s website also lists some ways to help prevent spread:

● Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public.

● Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask.

● Do not travel.

● Stay home and separate from others as much as possible.

● Use a separate bathroom, if possible.

● Take steps to improve ventilation at home, if possible.

● Don’t share personal household items, like cups, towels and utensils.

● Monitor your symptoms. If you have an emergency warning sign such as trouble breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.