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New Guidelines from CDC on Self-Isolation
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The advent of the Omicron mutation of COVID-19 has led to a slight alteration in the fight against viruses. Scientists have verified that the Omicron variation is more contagious than the prior mutations, including Delta; Omicron has already surpassed Delta as the predominant strain in numerous major nations. However, the symptoms of the Omicron strain are also milder than its forerunners, potentially hastening the end of more severe aspects of the pandemic lifestyle as it becomes a controllable endemic.
These effects are already becoming apparent; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today introduced an alteration to their guidance on self-isolation for COVID. Previously, individuals testing positive for COVID-19 would be instructed to self-isolate at home for a minimum of 10 days to allow the virus to progress. However, recent research indicates that most viral particles shed by a COVID-positive individual occur mainly in the initial days of infection. Consequently, the CDC has made a modification: if a person tests positive for COVID but remains symptom-free, they are now advised to self-isolate for just 5 days. If they continue to be asymptomatic, they can safely venture outdoors, although it is recommended that they wear a mask.
CDC has revised the recommended duration for #COVID19 isolation and quarantine. Find out more about what to do if you test positive or have close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19: https://t.co/ScxsyrZI16.
— CDC (@CDCgov) December 27, 2021
“The rapid spread of the Omicron variant has the potential to impact all aspects of our community,” stated Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC. “The updated guidelines from the CDC on isolation and quarantine strike a balance between our understanding of virus transmission and the safeguard provided by vaccines and booster shots. These updates ensure that people can carry on with their daily routines in a safe manner.”
