Jill Biden has tested positive for Covid for the second time, leading to multiple rounds of tests on President Joe Biden, who continues to test negative. As a precautionary measure, the president will wear a mask indoors. This serves as a reminder that the virus can still disrupt people’s lives, although it is no longer as deadly as before. Hospital admissions and deaths related to Covid have significantly decreased compared to the peak in January 2022, thanks to high levels of immunity among Americans and effective therapies and drugs.
Despite the federal government declaring the pandemic over in May and removing legal requirements for masking, isolation, testing, and vaccination, Covid is making a comeback. So, here’s what you need to know about the current situation in the US:
– Mask mandates: While some companies, universities, and healthcare facilities have reinstated mask mandates, there is no indication that state or federal mandates will return.
– Isolation after testing positive: While there is no legal requirement to isolate, people who test positive for Covid and have symptoms should isolate and separate from others for at least five days. They should also wear a high-quality mask and inform close contacts about their positive status.
– Sick leave: There is no legal requirement for employers to provide additional paid leave for Covid-related reasons. Some jurisdictions may still have Covid-specific sick leave laws in effect.
– Testing after exposure: CDC guidelines recommend wearing a mask after exposure and getting tested for the virus after five days. Even if the test is negative, it is still advised to wear a mask as symptoms can develop later.
– Severity and mortality: While Covid cases are increasing, the majority of people experience mild symptoms similar to a cold or flu. The hospitalization and death rates remain relatively low compared to other causes of death.
– Vaccine booster: Doctors recommend waiting for an updated booster shot, which is expected to be available in mid- to late-September. The new variants of the virus may be better at evading the current vaccine immunity. Vaccines are currently free for most Americans, but the price may increase when the shots are sold on the private market.
It’s important to note that the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and immunocompromised individuals are still at a higher risk of complications and should take precautions.
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