The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shortened its recommended 14-day quarantine period for some people who may have been exposed to the coronavirus.
The agency says people who have had close contact with those infected with the virus only need to self-quarantine for seven days following a negative test.
Individuals who don't take a test can end their quarantine after 10 days if they don't develop any symptoms.
A CDC expert said on Wednesday that the two alternative quarantine periods were identified as acceptable after reviewing and analyzing new research and modeling data.
The CDC says it still recommends a 14-day quarantine as the best way to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, but it will notify health authorities in every US state that the period can be shortened depending on the conditions.
It also suggests that travelers consider getting tested one to three days before a trip and three to five days after their return.
NHK
