WHO updated its guidelines for mask use in community settings, COVID-19 treatment, and clinical management. The review is part of an ongoing process that involves working with independent international experts to develop guidelines based on the most recent evidence and changing epidemiology.
Masks remain a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19
WHO continues to advise the public to wear masks in certain situations. This update also recommends that they be worn regardless of local epidemiological conditions, due the global spread of COVID-19. When someone is exposed to COVID-19 recently, when they are at high risk for severe COVID-19 or when they suspect that someone else has COVID-19 or when there is a recent exposure, masks should be worn. WHO previously based its recommendations on the current epidemiological situation.
WHO recommends that a mask can be used in other situations, depending on the risk assessment. Consider the following factors: local epidemiological trends, rising hospitalization rates, vaccination coverage, immunity levels in the community and the environment people are in.
Reduced period of isolation for COVID-19
WHO recommends that COVID-19 patients can be released from isolation if their rapid antigen test is negative.
The new guidelines recommend 10 days of isolation for patients who have symptoms without testing. WHO previously recommended that patients should be discharged after 10 days of symptom onset plus an additional three days if their symptoms have resolved.
WHO recommends 5 days in isolation for those who test positive but have no symptoms or signs of COVID-19. This is a reduction from the previous 10 days.
It is important to isolate people who have COVID-19 in order to prevent others from becoming infected. You can do this at home or in a dedicated facility such as a clinic or hospital.
Evidence considered by the group developing the guidelines showed that those without symptoms were much less likely than those who had symptoms to transmit the virus. Evidence, although of low certainty showed that patients with symptoms discharged five days after onset of symptoms were at risk of infecting three more people than those discharged ten days later.
Review of COVID-19 Treatments
WHO has extended its strong recommendation for the use of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (also known by its brand name ‘Paxlovid’).
Women who are pregnant or nursing and have COVID-19 that is not severe should consult their doctor about whether to take the drug. This is because of its ‘likely benefits,’ as well as the lack of reported adverse effects.
Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir was first recommended by WHO in April 2022. WHO strongly recommends its use in mild or moderate COVID-19 patients who are at high risk of hospitalization. WHO prequalified the first generic manufacturer of the drug in December 2022.
WHO also reviewed the evidence on two other medicines, sotrovimab, and casirivimab-imdevimab, and maintains strong recommendations against their use for treating COVID-19. These monoclonal antibodies are ineffective or less effective against the current virus variants.
COVID-19 patients have six proven treatment options. Three of them prevent hospitalization for high-risk individuals, and three others save lives when the disease is severe or critical. Access to drugs is still unsatisfactory worldwide, except for corticosteroids.
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