The CDC has issued updated guidance that reduces the suggested quarantine period down from 14 days to between 7-10 days following a COVID exposure. New Jersey has followed suit, amending their guidance as well with regard to the quarantine period for individuals travelling to any location outside of the immediate region (NY/NJ/CT/PA/DE). New Jersey’s new guidance is now as follows:

• If travelers test negative following travel, they should quarantine for a full 7 days after travel.

• If testing is not available (or if the results are delayed), travelers should quarantine for 10 days after travel.

New Jersey employers should feel free to similarly adjust their quarantine periods in the work place for individuals who are exposed and can get tested. Employees should be allowed to return after 7 days with a negative test (testing should take place no earlier than 5 days after exposure). Those who are exposed and are not tested should quarantine for 10 days and can return if they have no symptoms. Notably, these new guidelines have drawn criticism from health experts who note that the reduction in the quarantine period is not due to new medical evidence, but rather, appears to be based on the belief that by reducing the quarantine periods, individuals will be more likely to quarantine.