CDC Updates Guidelines: Consideration for Who Should Get Tested

CDC Updates Guidelines: Consideration for Who Should Get Tested

This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines for COVID testing. Previously, the CDC said, "Testing is recommended for all close contacts of persons with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Because of the potential for asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission, it is important that contacts of individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection be quickly identified and tested."

The guidelines, Considerations for Who Should Get Tested, were updated as of August 24, 2020, now state:

  • People who have symptoms of COVID-19.
  • People who have had close contact (within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes) with someone with confirmed COVID-19.
  • People who have been asked or referred to get testing by their healthcare provider, local or state health department.

Not everyone needs to be tested. If you do get tested, you should self-quarantine/isolate at home pending test results and follow the advice of your health care provider or a public health professional.

In a summary of these guidelines, the CDC said, "If you have been in close contact (within 6 feet) of a person with a COVID-19 infection for at least 15 minutes but do not have symptoms, you do not necessarily need a test unless you are a vulnerable individual or your health care provider or state or local public health officials recommend you take one."

We are your Compliance and COVID Experts

The year has been a turbulent year filled with challenges stemming from the ongoing pandemic and Healthcare Compliance Pros is here to ensure that your organization is prepared. Let us show you how to improve your commitment to compliance and stay current with the latest COVID-19 updates. Please check out our COVID Toolkit, and contact your compliance specialist (855.427.0427) to discuss adding its resources to your existing compliance program.

To find out what Healthcare Compliance can do for your organization's needs, please contact us today for a Free Consultation!