CDC Changes Quarantine Recommendation
Since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreaks in early March, the CDC has consistently advised 14-day quarantine guidelines for those who have traveled internationally or to states where there are a high number of infections. The Centers for Disease Control has, however, just revised its recommendation and removed the section “After You Travel” from the coronavirus guidelines on their web site. In a reversal from their original advice, the CDC is now making new recommendations based upon exposure risk factors for travelers – who are being asked to evaluate their circumstances to determine if they may have been exposed to the virus. The updated guidance includes returning travelers to maintain the original social distancing and mask-wearing advice, along with hand washing and being alert to any symptoms. Medical professionals still believe the 14-day quarantine rule is advisable if a traveler has returned from a highly-impacted location. The CDC also noted it is ill advised to gather in crowds outdoors or in enclosed spaces. Some states, such as New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts and Hawaii, continue to mandate 14-day self-quarantines for any incoming travelers.
Ann Sullivan is a contributing staff writer covering national and world news topics. She brings dedicated experience having written international and domestic news, blogs, and web content for over 20 years. She’s also a published poet and graphic designer with degrees in Business and Graphic Communications and has been a music distributor, music industry sponsorship sales director and band manager.