You may have heard that the CDC and Washington State Department of Health (DOH) have updated their guidance around COVID-19. Updated guidance is now similar for COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other respiratory viruses. Most people can return to normal activities when symptoms are getting better overall, and they have not had a fever (without having to use fever-reducing medication) for at least 24 hours.
These are baseline recommendations. People can always opt to be more protective, especially around our most vulnerable. This includes wearing a mask, taking steps to improve airflow and filtration, frequent hand washing, regular cleaning, physical distancing, and, if possible, testing when you will be around other people indoors.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, and it is important to remember people can still be contagious even when their symptoms have improved. It’s a good idea to wear a mask or stay away from vulnerable people even after respiratory illness symptoms improve:
- People with COVID-19 can be contagious for 5-10 days after their illness begins.
- People with flu can be contagious for up to 5-7 days after their illness begins.
- People with RSV can be contagious for 3-8 days after their illness begins.
The guidance we have listed above is intended for individuals. Employers must follow Washington State Department of Labor & Industries COVID-19 requirements in the workplace. Additionally, the new DOH guidance does not apply to healthcare settings. People who are staying, working, or visiting in a healthcare setting, long-term care facility, or residential care setting should follow the guidance in COVID-19 Infection Prevention in Health Care Settings, and the flu guidance for healthcare settings and long-term care facilities provided by the CDC.
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