Utah’s 14-day quarantine period changed to match CDC’s now-recommended 7-10 days

In accordance with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s new recommended policy concerning the length of quarantine for those exposed to COVID-19, the Utah Department of Health reduced its coronavirus quarantine time from 14 days to 7-10 days. The change was announced by Dr. Angela Dunn, the state epidemiologist.

Those exposed to COVID-19 can now end their quarantine on the seventh day from exposure if they receive a negative test, or on the 10th day from exposure without a negative test, according to the new guidelines. Those who have had COVID-19 within the past three months do not need to quarantine after exposure as long as the individual doesn’t develop symptoms again, the CDC’s new guideline recommends.

Exposure is defined as a person who has spent a total of 15 minutes six feet or closer to an infected person, including over multiple visits.

Quarantining for a full 14 days is still considered best practice, as it is possible to develop symptoms after the 10-day mark or even after testing negative on day seven, Dunn said. Wearing a mask and practicing social distancing is still crucial, she added.

However, CDC officials said offering a reduced quarantine period is aimed at relieving pressure on those facing economic stress from not being able to work during the two weeks.

Those quarantined at home are advised avoid all contact with others and watch for symptoms to develop — a fever, cough or shortness of breath or other signs of illness. For those who choose to utilize Utah’s shorter quarantine policy, they should still watch for symptoms up until the 14-day mark, even if they tested negative on day seven.