After more than two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, new guidance has been released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), easing or ending several recommendations. The CDC claims that the vast majority of the U.S. population has gained some COVID-19 protection through previous infection, vaccination, or a combination of both. Therefore, several recommendations are ceasing or changing.
The CDC no longer recommends social distancing. An individual does not need to remain six feet apart from another person to avoid exposure to the virus.
Additionally, quarantining is not recommended. While people exposed are no longer required to quarantine at home, it is still recommended to wear a mask for 10 days and test on the fifth day. However, if infected, a person should be isolating themselves for at least five days, regardless of vaccination status.
Lastly, testing recommendations have changed. The CDC is no longer recommending routine testing for those without symptoms, and contact tracing will be focused more on hospital settings and high-risk group-living situations, like prisons and nursing homes.
As the responsibility shifts away from institutions, individuals now have the power to manage COVID-19 risks, preventions, and exposures. It is important to note that the pandemic is constantly evolving, and recommendations could change at any time. As updates become available, Creative Benefits will release more information.