The CDC guidelines for COVID-19 include recommendations for preventing the spread of the virus, testing, and isolation for those who have been exposed or have tested positive for COVID-19. Some of the key guidelines include:

• Isolation: If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home. You are likely most infectious during these first 5 days. Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public. Do not go places where you are unable to wear a mask. For travel guidance, see CDC’s Travel webpage.

• Precautions: If you have COVID-19, you can spread the virus to others. There are precautions you can take to prevent spreading it to others: isolation, masking, and avoiding contact with people who are at high risk of getting very sick. Isolation is used to separate people with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 from those without COVID-19.

• Testing: Even when you don’t have symptoms or a recent exposure to COVID-19, testing may help you make informed decisions about your health and your risk of spreading COVID-19 to others, especially those who are at higher risk of severe illness. If you have symptoms, get tested and stay home until you have your results. If you have tested positive (even without symptoms), follow CDC’s isolation recommendations.

• Vaccination: COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Everyone 6 months and older can get an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

• Masking: CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Wear a high-quality mask or respirator (e.g., N95) any time you are around others inside your home or indoors in public. Masks are not recommended for children under ages 2 years and younger, or for people with some disabilities.

These guidelines are meant to supplement—not replace—any federal, state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations.