The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may soon update its COVID-19 guidance for schools and beyond, CNN reported. According to CNN, plans include lessening the emphasis on regular screenings at schools as well as relaxing quarantine protocols and focusing less on social distancing.
The plan obtained by CNN, also includes changes to the steps taken when students are exposed to COVID-19. It would remove the recommendation for students to test regularly to remain in the classroom, a recommendation made in December as Omicron case rates were increasing. Rather than continuing to recommend social distancing, the CDC will instead break down what types of areas are considered riskier settings and encourage more ventilation in buildings.
Though the details are not yet final, the plans have already been shown to educators and public health officials and could be publicly released this week.