Research Summary

CDC Updates Guidance on Respiratory Viruses, Ends 5-Day Isolation Period For Those Recovering From COVID-19

Anthony Calabro, MA

On Friday, March 1, the CDC released new guidance on COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, suggesting that those sick with such illnesses stay at home until they are fever-free for 24 hours and their symptoms have been improving during that same period.

The CDC updated its guidance for two main reasons: fewer hospitalizations associated with COVID-19 across the country and the United States being well-equipped with numerous tools to combat the triple threat of influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

While this new guidance ends the recommended 5-day isolation period, the CDC suggests that those recovering from influenza or COVID-19 who are living their daily lives should mask and keep their distance from others to reduce the risk of spreading their illness.

“Today’s announcement reflects the progress we have made in protecting against severe illness from COVID-19,” said Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, CDC Director, in a press release. “However, we still must use the commonsense solutions we know work to protect ourselves and others from serious illness from respiratory viruses—this includes vaccination, treatment, and staying home when we get sick.”

As part of their updated recommendations, the CDC provided core prevention tips and strategies, including:

  • Staying current on vaccination for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV (if eligible).
  • Practicing good hygiene by covering one’s mouth during coughs and sneezes, routinely washing or sanitizing one’s hands often, and cleaning surfaces regularly.
  • Taking steps to be surrounded by cleaner air by bringing in more fresh outside air or purifying indoor air, for example.

“The bottom line is that when people follow these actionable recommendations to avoid getting sick, and to protect themselves and others if they do get sick, it will help limit the spread of respiratory viruses, and that will mean fewer people who experience severe illness,” Demetre Daskalakis, MD, MPH, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Director, said in a press release. “That includes taking enhanced precautions that can help protect people who are at higher risk for getting seriously ill.”

 

Reference:
CDC updates and simplifies respiratory virus recommendations. News release. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; March 1, 2024. Accessed March 4, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/p0301-respiratory-virus.html.