The New York State Department of Health has recently announced that it will be altering its course on COVID-19 exposure protocol statewide. Individuals who are exposed to COVID-19 in New York State no longer need to quarantine following such exposure. Instead, the NY Department of Health has elected to adopt the recent CDC guideline revisions and require only the following when an individual is exposed to COVID-19 (regardless of vaccination status):

- Wear a “high-quality” mask for 10 days following exposure; and

- Test after the fifth full day of exposure

With this new guidance, employers are free to ease restrictions in their own workplace and no longer need to force employees exposed to COVID-19 to quarantine without visible symptoms or a positive COVID-19 test. Employers should update their guidance to reflect the new protocols. Additionally, employers should stock up on CDC-approved masks so exposed employees who wish to continue working will be in compliance.

You can read more about New York State’s updated COVID-19 exposure requirements HERE.