18 Jan 2023 • Given the current global spread of the COVID-19, WHO continues to recommend the use of masks by the general public in specific situations, and this update recommends their use regardless of the local epidemiological situation. Masks are recommended for anyone who has recently been exposed to COVID-19, has or suspects they have COVID-19, is at high risk of severe COVID-19, and is in a crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated space. Previously, WHO recommendations were based on the epidemiological situation. For those who test positive for COVID-19 but do not have any signs or symptoms, WHO now suggests 5 days of isolation in the absence of testing, compared to 10 days previously. WHO advises that a COVID-19 patient can be discharged from isolation early if they test negative on an antigen-based rapid test. Without testing, for patients with symptoms, the new guidelines suggest 10 days of isolation from the date of symptom onset. WHO has extended its strong recommendation for the use of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (also known by its brand name ‘Paxlovid’).

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