CDC Reverses On COVID Testing Protocols After Outcry

The New York Times reports:

The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has scaled back the agency’s recommendation advising some people not to get tested after exposure to the novel coronavirus, now saying “testing may be considered for all close contacts of confirmed or probable Covid-19 patients.”

The statement by Dr. Robert R. Redfield was issued to some news outlets late Wednesday, and more broadly Thursday morning, after a storm of criticism over the new C.D.C. guidelines — involving potentially asymptomatic people — which were the product of the White House.

The clarification is unusual. Public health experts say clear, consistent communications are essential to fighting an infectious disease outbreak, and Dr. Redfield’s comments may further confuse things.

CDC reverses course on testing, health experts question change https://t.co/zaveVOsHTk pic.twitter.com/j126ZkQV6a

— WFTV Channel 9 (@WFTV) August 27, 2020