On December 2, 2020, the CDC announced new guidelines for domestic travel and revised its quarantine recommendations.
Below outlines the reduced quarantine options:
Under the new guidelines:
∙ If an individual has been exposed to the virus and does not get tested for the virus, the person need only quarantine for 10 days (rather than the previous 14) if the person has experienced no symptoms.
∙ If a person takes a test and receives a negative result, the quarantine period is reduced to 7 days if the person has experienced no symptoms. This option only applies if the negative test is received within 48 hours of the end of the quarantine period.
CDC officials stated the hope that “reducing the length of quarantine may make it easier for people to take this critical public health action by reducing the economic hardship associated with a longer period, especially if they cannot work during that time. In addition, a shorter quarantine period can lessen stress in the public health system, and communities, especially when new infections are rapidly rising.”
CDC officials further commented, however, that “the CDC continues to recommend quarantine for 14 days as the best way to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.” The official stated, “I want to stress that we are sharing these options with public health agencies across the country, so that they can determine how long the quarantine period should last in their jurisdictions, based on local conditions and needs.”
Accordingly, although the CDC has changed its recommendations, it is still important to know what restrictions remain in place for the relevant states being visited and to follow these requirements. In addition, with Winter holidays on the way, CDC officials emphasized that “the best way to protect yourself and others, is to postpone travel and stay home.”
As an Employer, it is recommended that you stay on top of CDC guidance relative to the workplace and employee related matters. Our goal is to inform you, best that we are able, of significant changes. For more see CDC’s webpage for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information Travel guidelines can be accessed here.