Illinois to adapt CDC guidance for schools. Here's what parents need to know

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WREX) — Illinois health officials and the Illinois State Board of Education announced the state is adopting the CDC's updated guidance for schools. 

The CDC released the new isolation and guidance earlier this week and now, IDPH and ISBE plan on revising its existing regulations and guidelines to align with the CDC's new guidance.

Here's what parents need to know. 

The new K-12 school recommendations say children who have not been fully vaccinated and are exposed to the coronavirus should quarantine for at least five days after their last close contact with a person who has Covid-19. Adults who are not vaccinated against Covid-19 or who have not received a booster shot are advised to follow this recommendation, too.

Previously, the CDC K-12 guidance recommended a 14-day at-home quarantine for people exposed to the coronavirus who were not fully vaccinated.

The new K-12 recommendations say students, teachers and staff with Covid-19 should stay home and isolate away from others for at least five full days. Day 0 is considered the first day of symptoms or the day of a positive viral test for people who do not have symptoms. People whose symptoms are improving can leave isolation after five full days if they are fever-free for 24 hours. They should wear a mask around others for an additional five days.

Previously, the CDC K-12 guidance recommended at least a 10-day isolation period for people infected with the virus.

Schools should ensure that there is a plan for people with confirmed COVID-19 and those identified as close contacts to stay masked at all times indoors upon return and through day 10.

During times in the school day when students or staff members may typically remove masks indoors (such as during lunches or snack time), have a plan for them to adequately distance from others and ensure they wear their masks when not actively participating in these activities (such as when they are not actively eating).

IDPH says the new Illinois regulations and guidance documents will be released soon.