In regard to the 7-day test-out option
The Platte County Health Department does not support the recent CDC test out option for release from quarantine in seven days at this time, due to the high community prevalence of COVID-19 and the additional strain on community testing.
That was the word this week via a press release from the Platte County Health Department on Tuesday.
On Dec. 2, the CDC amended its quarantine guidance for those who have been exposed to COVID-19. The revised guidance provides two, shorter quarantine options, while stating that, “Local public health authorities determine and establish the quarantine options for their jurisdictions.”
CDC continues to state that its recommendation is a quarantine period of 14 days. However, based on local circumstances and resources, the following two options to shorten quarantine are acceptable alternatives.
1. Quarantine can end after Day 10 without testing and if no symptoms have been reported during daily monitoring.
2. When diagnostic testing resources are sufficient and available then quarantine can end after Day 7 if a diagnostic specimen tests negative and if no symptoms were reported during daily monitoring
An important consideration of the revised guidance is to take into account the local prevalence of COVID-19 and testing capacity.
“While the needs and conditions of KC Metro jurisdictions vary, we agree with the CDC that the preferred length of quarantine remains 14 days after exposure. Research continues to identify that length as the safest option,” states the Platte County Health Department news release.
The Platte County Health Department urges those who have been exposed to COVID-19 to stay home, and follow this guidance for testing:
.If you are without symptoms you should wait for at least seven days to be tested.
.If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms get tested as soon as possible.
After review of the ongoing high community prevalence of COVID-19 in Platte County and the fact that there is not sufficient testing capacity available, the Platte County Health Department says it supports the following quarantine guidelines as outlined by the CDC:
1. The preferred length of quarantine remains 14 days after exposure.
2. Based on the Dec. 2, 2020 CDC update, as a close contact, you may end your quarantine after 10 days IF you have NO SYMPTOMS.
.You must continue to wear your mask and monitor for symptoms daily for the full 14-day time period following your exposure.
.If at any time during that 14-day timeframe you develop symptoms of COVID-19, please isolate and get tested as soon as possible.
3. Masking and symptom monitoring for full 14 days are required even if you are able to end the quarantine early based on this new option.
4. If you are unable to wear a mask (in general or for a particular activity), you would need to complete the 14-day quarantine or avoid any activities for which you cannot wear a mask until the end of your 14 day quarantine.
5. The Platte County Health Department does not support the test out option for release from quarantine in seven days at this time, due to the high community prevalence and the additional strain on community testing.