When can you be around others? CDC offers guidance Article Courtesy of MSN.com
Published 5/27/20. Reprinted with permission
People who have been sick with coronavirus infections should stay away from other people until they’ve gone at least three days with no fever, have seen symptoms improve, and until it’s been 10 days since they first noticed symptoms, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in updated guidance.
careful what you touch. But the CDC also advises opening windows when possible to improve air circulation, especially in cars. Wash again and again
“Limit touching frequently touched surfaces such as kiosks, digital interfaces such as touchscreens The CDC updated guidance on when it’s safe and fingerprint scanners, ticket machines, turnto leave quarantine, as well as some consumstiles, handrails, restroom surfaces, elevator er-friendly guidance on using public transit buttons, and benches as much as possible,” the and ride shares as states loosen restrictions on CDC advises. “If you must touch these surfacopening schools, businesses and leaving home. es, as soon as you can, wash your hands for 20 People who have been infected need to be sure seconds with soap and water or rub your hands they won’t spread the virus, even if they feel bet- with sanitizer containing 60% alcohol,” it adds. ter, the CDC advised. “Depending on your healthcare provider’s advice and availability of testing, you might get tested to see if you still have Covid-19. If you will be tested, you can be around others when you have no fever, symptoms have improved, and you receive two negative test results in a row, at least 24 hours apart,” the CDC said in the new guidance. Waiting to mingle People who tested positive but had no symptoms can still infect others, and the CDC says people should wait for 10 days after a positive test before mixing with other people again. “People with conditions that weaken their immune system might need to stay home longer than 10 days,” the CDC said. And people who are exposed to someone with coronavirus need to stay at home for at least 14 days, the CDC said, since it can take that long for symptoms to develop. The CDC’s updated practical advice for using public transportation, ride shares and other transportation was consistent with other advice on preventing infection: wash your hands and be
“Use touchless payment and no-touch trash cans and doors when available. Exchange cash or credit cards by placing them in a receipt tray or on the counter rather than by hand, if possible.” Social distancing is also important in both cars and on public transit, the CDC said. “When possible, consider traveling during nonpeak hours when there are likely to be fewer people,” it advises. “Follow social distancing guidelines by staying at least 6 feet (2 meters)
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