Late last week, the CDC announced a significant shift in strategy to manage Covid-19 in the future.
In their announcement, they state that this shift is due to: High levels of immunity and availability of effective COVID-19 prevention and management tools have reduced the risk for medically significant illness and death.
More, we can all prevent medically significant Covid illness and death by first understanding our risk. Next, we can protect ourselves with vaccinations and boosters, therapeutic treatments and nonpharmaceutical interventions when needed. What is also key is testing and wearing a mask when exposed or symptomatic. And those that test positive need to isolate for at least five days.
Individual Responsibility
Thus, the CDC’s shift in strategy takes the burden from schools, businesses and other institutions. And it places it on the individual. Indeed, the CDC also released separate recommendations for schools using a more relaxed approach.
Therefore, health messages and the work of organizations like ours will continue to be important.
This graphic illustrates four key steps we can all take to reduce the spread of the virus. And these messages are supported and detailed on this site.
Know your Risks
Immune compromised individuals should consider taking extra precautions including wearing a mask.
It is important to monitor the news for outbreaks of new strains that may be more resistant to vaccinations and prior exposure. Additionally, it is important to know and respond if you have been exposed to it.
Protect Yourself
Today, COVID-19 is a vaccine-preventable disease. Vaccines are safe. And they are effective. More, even though there are reported “breakthrough cases” (including the BA.5 sub-variant), they substantially reduce serious illness.
And we would emphasize by protecting yourself, you are protecting others, also.
Take Action if Exposed
If you were potentially exposed, get tested and monitor your health over the next several days. And if you around others, wear a mask until you confirm a negative test.
Masks remain a key strategy in stopping the virus.
Take Action if Sick or Test Positive
If you have symptoms consistent with Covid or you test positive, take steps to reduce the spread of the virus to others. Additionally, you should consider getting test, also.
Infected individuals are encouraged to self isolate for at least five days. And they should always wear a mask when interacting with others.
Please bookmark our guide on the virus.