US Shortens COVID-19 Isolation Period from 10 to 5 Days (Summary)

Contacts Who Received Booster Shot Are Exempt from Quarantine

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] U.S. health authorities have recommended shortening the isolation period for COVID-19 confirmed cases from the existing 10 days to 5 days. Whether contacts must isolate is exempted depending on whether they have received a booster shot.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated on the 27th (local time), "There is increasing evidence that the infectiousness of confirmed cases is greatest during the first two days of infection, before symptom onset," explaining this recommendation.

According to the new guidance, confirmed cases must isolate for 5 days regardless of vaccination status. If symptoms persist after the isolation period, individuals should stay home until their health improves, then wear a mask for 5 days starting from the recovery point.

If there are no symptoms, individuals must wear a mask for at least 5 days after ending isolation. The CDC emphasized, "Masks must be worn when around others, even when at home."

People who have been in contact with infected individuals have eased or exempted isolation depending on vaccination status. Those who have received a booster shot do not need to isolate but must wear a mask for 10 days. Unvaccinated individuals or those with only 1 or 2 doses must isolate for 5 days after contact with a confirmed case, then wear a mask for an additional 5 days.

This decision was made in response to the recent spread of the Omicron variant. As confirmed cases surged, the number of people entering isolation increased sharply, causing confusion in the healthcare system and airline industry.

On the 23rd, the CDC shortened the isolation period for asymptomatic healthcare workers from 10 days to 7 days to alleviate medical burdens. The new guidance expands this measure to the general public. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) said, "The new guidelines have advanced the timing for people to return to workplaces, stores, and public places."

The new guidelines are recommendations, not mandates. Each state can decide whether to apply them to public officials and workers depending on the situation. CNBC predicted, "Last week, New York State said it would shorten isolation periods for other essential sectors following the CDC's decision for healthcare workers, and other states are likely to follow suit."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.