COVID-19
May 29, 2024
Hello, Dear Ones!
Update from the Department of Health of Washington State concerning Covid:
One of the most significant guidance changes is how long someone should stay home and away from others after contracting COVID-19, flu, RSV, or other respiratory viruses. While previous COVID-19 guidance recommended people isolate for at least 5 full days after symptoms appeared, the new guidance recommends people return to normal activities when their symptoms are getting better overall and they have not had a fever (without having to use fever-reducing medication) for at least 24 hours. It is important to remember that people can still be contagious even when their symptoms have improved:
People with COVID-19 can be contagious for 5-10 days after their illness begins.
People with flu can be contagious for up to 5-7 days after their illness begins.
People with RSV can be contagious for 3-8 days after their illness begins.
Because people can remain contagious even after they feel better, DOH recommends taking extra precautions during the first 5 days of returning to normal activities after COVID-19, flu, RSV, or other respiratory viruses. This includes wearing a mask, taking steps to improve air flow and filtration, frequent hand washing, regular cleaning, physical distancing, and, if possible, testing when you will be around other people indoors.
As always, I will do my best to navigate this in a way that supports your health and wellbeing. Please reach out if you have any questions or to let me know how you are doing!
Be well and powerful,
Lesley Bush