CDC Has Updated its 2024 COVID Isolation Guidelines. What To Know Before Fall And Winter Surges.

Source: Fortune, CDC

As recently as February, a positive rapid test would’ve meant five days of isolation, away from work, school, and/or other obligations that involve going out in public. Not anymore. In March, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its COVID isolation guidelines based on symptoms, not time since testing positive.

The guidelines shifted in part to match those of other common respiratory viral illnesses, including the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The CDC now says you’re cleared to resume normal activities when the following are both true for at least 24 hours:

• Your symptoms are getting better overall
• You haven’t had a fever (and aren’t using fever-reducing medication)

Bottom line: If you’re sick, stay home. If your symptoms persist, you may end up isolating for five or more days after all, but you’ll be doing your part to protect your loved ones, coworkers, and others in your community from infection.