New COVID-19 Cases In U.S. Soar To Highest Levels On Record

The CDC has updated its COVID-19 isolation guidelines, reducing the isolation period from 10 to 5 days for asymptomatic individuals. This decision, defended by CDC chief Dr. Rachel Walensky, aims to balance public health with societal needs. The change comes amid rising COVID cases and the spread of the Omicron variant, which has led to increased demand for testing. The guidelines apply equally to vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, though those with booster shots are exempt from quarantine after exposure. The lack of a testing requirement post-isolation has drawn criticism, with some health officials calling it a political compromise. The White House plans to distribute 500 million free at-home tests, though availability remains uncertain.

What is the new recommended isolation period for asymptomatic individuals according to the CDC?

• 10 days

• 7 days

• 5 days

• 3 days

What has contributed to the long lines for COVID tests in the U.S.?

• The emergence of the Delta variant

• The emergence of the Omicron variant

• A decrease in testing sites

• An increase in vaccination rates

What percentage of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated according to the transcript?

• 50%

• 62%

• 75%

• 38%

What is the stance of former Surgeon General Jerome Adams on the CDC's new guidelines?

• He thinks they are scientifically sound

• He fully supports the guidelines

• He believes the guidelines are too strict

• He criticizes them as a political compromise

How many at-home COVID tests has the White House pledged to provide?

• 1 billion

• 100 million

• 250 million

• 500 million