The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has lifted the five-day COVID-19 isolation guidance for most settings. These latest guidelines are designed with the general public in mind, including senior living and assisted living, but specifically exclude other healthcare facilities, including nursing homes.

In addition the CDC has issued new, unified recommendations for managing all respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in community settings and assisted living.

Key points include:

• New recommendations apply to assisted living and similar residences, not other healthcare facilities like nursing homes, where isolation rules should be maintained.
• Individuals with active infections should stay home and isolate.
• Upon improvement and being fever-free for 24 hours, individuals can resume normal activities but are encouraged to:
  • Practice good hygiene (masking, handwashing, etc);
  • Improve ventilation (increased fresh air, air purifiers);
  • Maintain distance from others;
  • Get tested for respiratory viruses (optional).
• Vaccination remains highly recommended, especially for adults 65+ and those at higher risk.

Overall, assisted living communities have more flexibility in following these recommendations compared with nursing homes. The CDC strongly recommends prevention strategies like staying up-to-date on vaccinations and good hygiene for both residents and staff.

For the full CDC guidance, click here.