The CDC Begins Drafting Guidelines to Reopen the US

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has begun drafting guidelines for the US’ eventual reopening. The CDC’s 17-page document details guidelines on how businesses, schools, churches, and various other organizations should begin safely reopening to the public amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. 

Guidelines for a Safe Reopening 

The draft document was sent to CNN on Thursday, and it includes guidance for six different categories – child care programs, schools and day camps, communities of faith, employers with vulnerable workers, restaurants and bars, mass transit administrators. A federal health official, however, noted that despite the draft being sent to Washington, it is still under review by the administration and could be subject to change. 

Reopenings will be in phases for each category, with the guidelines differing for some. While the recommendations are not final and are under consideration by the White House. President Trump, however, is unlikely to sign off on the proposal of returning to an altered way of life. 

“I see the new normal being what it was three months ago. I think we want to go back to where it was,” Trump said at a meeting with restaurant and hospitality industries’ representatives. 

Industry groups have been calling for nationwide standards for businesses to be issued for consistency and to also be mindful of businesses’ bottom lines. However, these factors are not the only concern Trump has with the guidelines. 

Trump mentioned a restaurant owner telling him that if he opens up and has to keep distance, 50% of the restaurant would be empty, to which Trump replied that the atmosphere would be worse as well. The fact is that half-full restaurants, stadiums, bars, and the like will not provide “normalcy” for many Americans. 

For most of the categories listed in the document, the recommendations are to keep the existing social distancing rules, as well as wearing face coverings or masks. Working from home or remotely is also recommended for those at higher risk of severe illness.