"CDC Updates COVID-19 Isolation Guidelines for Recovering Patients"

The CDC has updated its guidance for COVID-19 patients, stating that individuals no longer need to isolate for five days after symptoms end. Instead, they should stay home until at least 24 hours after symptoms improve and they are fever-free without medication. The guidelines also recommend wearing masks, maintaining distance, testing, and practicing enhanced hygiene. These changes align with longstanding flu recommendations and aim to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Despite a slight decline in COVID-19 hospitalizations, the virus continues to affect older adults at higher rates.