The Latest in COVID-19 News: Week Ending Apr. 11

By the Editors

This week, numerous guidelines were issued to address the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Among the topics:

• use of face masks;

• treatment with hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine;

• use of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease;

• cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with COVID-19; and

• return-to-work for exposed, asymptomatic essential workers.

Additionally, evidence suggested that SARS-CoV-2 may be transmissible via normal breathing, and a CDC report detailed how easily the virus can be spread at family gatherings. Follow the links below to catch up on all of our COVID-19 coverage from the past week.

Our Editors Weigh In on the CDC's Return-to-Work Guidance:

Andre Sofair, MD, MPH: Although treatment algorithms continue to evolve as we refine our knowledge of the disease and best practices, I think this week the guidance from CDC regarding return-to-work for exposed, asymptomatic essential workers is practical and applicable to our workplaces and to many of our patients.

William E. Chavey, MD, MS: Much of the focus around COVID-19 has been on public health and hospital-based issues. Those of us in primary care are dealing with practical issues such as return-to-work after exposure, and we will soon be dealing with issues surrounding patients who have been discharged after COVID-19 admissions. The guidance on return-to-work after exposure is quite relevant to ambulatory settings.