During an emergency meeting late Tuesday afternoon, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended in a 13-1 vote who should receive the COVID-19 vaccine first. The CDC also lessened its 14-day quarantine to a 7- to 10-day quarantine.
“When a COVID-19 vaccine is authorized by FDA and recommended by ACIP, vaccination in the initial phase of the COVID-19 vaccination program should be offered to both health care personnel and residents of long-term care facilities,” CDC posted to its website.
According to revised guidances issued earlier today, CDC says the 14-day COVID-19 quarantine can be shortened to 7-10 days.
“Reducing the length of quarantine may make it easier for people to take this critical public health action by reducing the economic hardship associated with a longer period, especially if they cannot work during that time,” CDC’s incident manager for its COVID-19 response Dr. Henry Walke said. “In addition, a shorter quarantine period can lessen stress on the public health system and communities, especially when new infections are rapidly rising.”
The CDC also recommends people stay home during the upcoming holiday season – similar to the recommendation released prior to Thanksgiving.