Aims to prevent contracting illnesses like the flu, COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released updated guidance that recommends steps to prevent viral respiratory illnesses, including influenza and COVID-19.

The guidance emphasizes staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, and taking steps to improve air quality. People are also encouraged to seek healthcare care promptly if they have risk factors for severe illness.

Guides
Respiratory Virus Guidance
Respiratory Virus Guidance Background
Respiratory Virus Guidance Talking Points
Respiratory Virus Guidance Public FAQ

Some of the key recommendations in the guidance include staying home and away from others when sick, waiting until symptoms are improving and no fever is present for at least 24 hours before returning to normal activities, and using additional precautions for five days after returning to normal activities. People should also consider wearing a mask, social distancing, and testing for respiratory viruses if they have risk factors for severe illness.

The guidance has been developed to be easier to understand and follow, while also continuing to protect those most at risk for severe illness. The CDC expects the guidance to be especially useful for older adults, young children, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant people.

The guidance aligns with CDC’s separate guidance for healthcare settings, which is not changing.

The agency has been working with education partners to develop separate infection prevention and control guidance for schools, which will include information on infection spread and prevention strategies across a number of pathogens.

The school guidance is expected to be released before the next school year.