Today, December 2, 2020, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced alternatives to the 14-day recommended quarantine for those exposed to COVID-19.

For individuals exposed to COVID-19 who have not experienced symptoms, the CDC advises that quarantine can now end after 10 days if no COVID-19 test is taken, or after 7 days with a negative COVID-19 test.

However, the CDC advises continued monitoring of symptoms for the full 14 days after exposure to the virus "especially if quarantine is discontinued early."  The CDC also recommends the full 14-day quarantine as the best method to prevent spread.  In addition, the CDC reminds everyone that people should follow their local public health authorities about the length of quarantine.

The CDC’s shortened quarantine guidance is intended to make compliance easier by reducing economic hardship.

The author would like to gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Joanne Warriner.