New guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19

Earlier this spring, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance to unify the approach to addressing risks from a range of common respiratory illnesses, which include COVID-19, flu, and Respiratory Syncytial virus or RSV. Due to decreased hospitalizations and deaths associated with COVID-19, it can now be prevented and treated similarly to flu and RSV.  The CDC continues to encourage maintaining up-to-date vaccinations against these respiratory illnesses for everyone eligible to do so. They also emphasize the need to practice good hygiene, including covering coughs and sneezes, washing and sanitizing hands regularly, and keeping frequently touched surfaces clean. The new recommendations suggest returning to normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, any fever has returned to normal without fever-reducing medication and if symptoms are improving overall. Once people resume normal activities, they are encouraged to take additional prevention strategies for the next five days to curb disease spread, such as wearing a well-fitting mask and keeping a distance from others. While every respiratory virus does not act the same, adopting a unified approach to limiting disease spread makes recommendations easier to follow and, thus, more likely to be adopted. Wake Forest University will continue to follow CDC guidance as we protect our engaged learning environment and vibrant campus community.