CDC ends COVID-19 five-day quarantine: What you need to know
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is shortening its quarantine guidelines for COVID-19, a decision based on the reduced severity of the disease and the population's improved immunity, the federal health agency announced Friday.
People don't have to quarantine if they are fever-free without taking medication and are recovering from their symptoms, the CDC's new guidelines say, representing a significant change from the previous five-day isolation recommendation for anyone testing positive for COVID-19.
"As the threat from COVID-19 becomes more similar to that of other common respiratory viruses, CDC is issuing Respiratory Virus Guidance, rather than additional virus-specific guidance," the CDC wrote in a report explaining its decision.
It's unclear if the CDC still recomends quarantine for asymptomatic people who test positive for COVID-19.
Public attitudes toward the COVID-19 have shifted drastically since 2020 as vaccines have become available and deaths decreased, leaving a small subset of people who regularly wear masks, test for the illness and isolate when experiencing symptoms.
Public health experts are divided on COVID-19 precautions. Some criticized the CDC in a New York Times article for ignoring the severe impact of the disease on chronically-ill population and caving to economic concerns about lost work instead of advocating for better sick leave policies.
How deadly is COVID-19 in Indiana?
COVID-19 is on the decline from a spike during the winter holidays, when about 10 people were dying a day and hundreds more admitted to emergency rooms and inpatient care.
The latest data shows that COVID-19 emergency visits have decreased to about 300 a day across the the state. Deaths have decreased to about 2 a day.
By comparison, the state has recorded 120 flu deaths since late last year.
What does this mean for me?
Health officials still recommend those sick with COVID-19, even if they're fever free, wear masks and keep their distance to avoid getting other people sick.
People can still be infectious even if they are feeling better.
While the guidance has changed and the risk of serious complications have decreased, COVID-19 is still dangerous for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled, according to health experts.
Those who have severe COVID-19 illnesses, have had the disease several times or are not vaccinated against the disease may have a higher chance of developing long-term symptoms, according to the CDC.
Binghui Huang can be reached at 317-385-1595 or Bhuang@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: What to know about the end of the COVID-19 five-day quarantine.
