CDC revises guidelines on COVID-19, if you test positive, treat it like the flu 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has introduced new guidelines for individuals with COVID-19, aligning the recommendations with those for the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The updated guidelines suggest that individuals with COVID-19 should stay home while experiencing symptoms and fever, following the same protocol as for the flu and RSV. The previous recommendation for a five-day isolation period and testing has been eliminated.

CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen explained that the new guidelines are adapted to the current level of protection against the virus and the effectiveness of known prevention measures. Individuals with mild and improving symptoms, who have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medications, can resume work or regular activities. The CDC advises considering additional preventive measures, such as wearing a well-fitted mask and maintaining distance from others, for the next five days.

The changes in recommendations acknowledge the decreased threat of the coronavirus, especially with approximately 98% of the U.S. population having some form of immunity from infection, vaccination, or both. Despite the diminishing threat, CDC officials emphasized the importance of getting updated COVID-19 vaccines to guard against severe illness, given the potential waning of immunity with emerging variants.

The guidelines do not apply to nursing homes and hospitals with more vulnerable populations. Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, director of the CDC National Center for Immunization and Respiratory, emphasized that while COVID-19 is not the flu, the streamlined guidance recognizes commonalities in symptoms, spread, and prevention strategies with other respiratory illnesses.

Despite the positive aspects of the new guidelines, questions remain about the impact, particularly regarding whether workers without paid sick days might go to work while still contagious. Some concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact on the workforce if contagious individuals feel compelled to work due to the absence of paid sick leave.