Test tubes with blood samples of donors that have developed antibodies against the coronavirus. Photo: Robin Utrecht/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance Friday evening suggesting that those who test positive for COVID-19 and recover "do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months as long as they do not develop symptoms again."
What they're saying: "...this science does not imply a person is immune to reinfection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in the 3 months following infection. The latest data simply suggests that retesting someone in the 3 months following initial infection is not necessary unless that person is exhibiting the symptoms of COVID-19 and the symptoms cannot be associated with another illness."
Details: The CDC continues to recommend social distancing, mask-wearing and other precautions.
- Several studies have found that most people who are visibly ill and test positive for the virus develop antibodies.
- Other research has highlighted evidence that those with mild or no symptoms could have immunity for two-to-three months, but then levels drop off.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect the latest CDC guidance.