The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is planning to shorten the recommended length of time spent in quarantine after being exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
A senior administration official says the new guidelines, which are set to take effect this week, will allow people who have come into contact with someone infected with the virus can resume normal activities after just 10 days instead of the previously recommended fourteen. But if they receive a negative test result they would only be required to quarantine for 7 days.
According to the official the policy change has been in the works for some time now, as scientists have studied the incubation period of the virus and now have a better understanding of it. The policy would significantly shorten the time needed to self-quarantine after coming into close contact with anyone suspected of being infected with the virus, which has now infected over 13 million Americans.
While the CDC previously thought the incubation period for the virus was thought to exceed a 14 day period, most individuals became infectious and showed symptoms after just 4 or 5 days of exposure.
This would not be the first time the CDC has changed its guidelines for COVID-19 as they continue to research the effects of the virus. Back in July agency shortened the advised amount of time a person should stay in isolation after they first experience any symptoms related to the virus.
The new guidance is being presented at the White House for final approval from the coronavirus task force.
