Returning to work or school after respiratory symptoms: a practical guide

Use current local guidance, symptom improvement and added precautions to reduce the chance of spreading respiratory viruses when returning to daily activities.

Stay home while you are unwell

When respiratory-virus symptoms are not better explained by another cause, staying home and away from others can reduce spread. Symptoms may include fever, cough, runny nose, headache, fatigue or sore throat.

A current CDC benchmark for resuming activities

CDC guidance for the public says normal activities can resume when, for at least 24 hours, symptoms are improving overall and any fever has been gone without fever-reducing medication. This is general guidance, not a workplace, school, healthcare or local legal rule.

Add precautions after you return

CDC recommends added precautions for the next five days, such as cleaner air, good hygiene, a well-fitting mask, distancing or testing when you will be around others. These layers are especially important when you may be around people at higher risk of severe illness.

When a different rule may apply

Healthcare settings, workplaces, schools, local authorities and people with immune suppression may have different requirements or need individualized advice. Check the policy that applies to your setting. If fever returns or you feel worse after resuming activities, stay home again and reassess.

When to seek medical help

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, bluish lips or skin, or rapid deterioration.

This content is general information, not a diagnosis or individual medical advice. Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.