New Respiratory Virus Guidance recommends staying home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both symptoms are getting better overall and fever has been gone (without using fever-reducing medication). This period could be shorter, the same, or longer than the previous guidance for COVID-19. Guidance is now similar to what it has always been for viral respiratory infections, like the flu.
The guidance still encourages added precaution over the next five days after time at home, away from others, is over. Since some people remain contagious beyond the “stay-at-home” period, continuing added precautions, such as taking more steps for cleaner air, enhancing hygiene practices, wearing a well-fitting mask, keeping a distance from others, and/or getting tested for respiratory viruses can lower the chance of spreading respiratory viruses to others.
Prevent Respiratory Virus Spread