As the summer temperatures rise, a new set of COVID variants are causing an increase in cases and emergency room visits across the United States. The series of variants, known as the “FLiRT” variants, are currently dominating the country, making up over 54% of COVID cases, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
With this rise in cases and hospitalizations, it is important to know what to do if you become infected. However, guidelines have changed since the beginning of the pandemic, so it is important to stay updated on the latest recommendations.
In March, the CDC updated its COVID guidelines to align with guidance for other respiratory infections. This means that those who have contracted COVID-19 no longer need to isolate for five days, as was previously recommended. Instead, the CDC now advises that individuals with mild symptoms can return to work or regular activities if their symptoms are improving and it has been at least one day since they had a fever. However, the CDC still recommends staying home if you have symptoms and suggests additional prevention strategies for an additional five days, such as wearing a mask and maintaining distance from others.
It is important to note that the CDC still recommends taking steps to prevent infection in the first place, including getting vaccinated, washing your hands frequently, and bringing in more fresh outdoor air. This is especially crucial as the FLiRT variants continue to spread across the country.
The CDC also emphasizes the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations to protect against not only COVID-19, but also other respiratory infections like the flu and RSV. Practicing good hygiene, such as covering coughs and sneezes and regularly sanitizing your hands, can also help prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, taking steps to improve indoor air quality, such as bringing in more fresh air or using air purifiers, can also help reduce the risk of infection.
It is worth noting that the change in isolation guidelines comes at a time when COVID-19 is no longer the leading cause of death in the United States. This is in part due to a significant number of people having some degree of immunity from past vaccinations or infections. However, it is still important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus and protect those who may be more vulnerable.
Ultimately, as the FLiRT variants continue to dominate and cases rise, it is crucial to stay informed and follow the latest guidelines from the CDC. By getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and taking steps to improve indoor air quality, we can all do our part to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect ourselves and our communities. As always, stay safe and stay healthy.
