February 1, 2022
This message includes updates on the COVID-19 response from CDC. The COVID-19 Outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.
Steps Everyone Can Take to Make Gatherings Safer
If you are attending a gathering, think about the steps you need to take to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19.
Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines.
If you are not up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and are ages 2 or older, you should wear a mask indoors in public.
In general, people do not need to wear masks when outdoors. In areas of substantial or high transmission, people might choose to wear a mask outdoors when in sustained close contact with other people, particularly if they or someone they live with has a weakened immune system or is at increased risk for severe disease.
Consider using a self-test before joining indoor gatherings with others who do not live in your household. Good ventilation can help prevent you from getting and spreading COVID-19.
Stay home if you test positive or are sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
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How to Use Your N95 Respirator
Respirators are made to protect you by filtering the air and fitting closely on the face to filter out particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19. They can also contain droplets and particles you breathe, cough, or sneeze out so you do not spread them to others.
Respirators must form a seal to the face to work properly. This is especially important for people at increased risk for severe disease. Respirators have markings printed on the product to indicate they are authentic, see appropriate N95 and KN95 markings.
Wearing a respirator can make it harder to breathe. If you have heart or lung problems, talk to your doctor before using an N95.
The Strategic National Stockpile has distributed N95 respirators to pharmacy distribution centers throughout the country. For specific manufacturer’s instructions for your N95 model, visit Free N95 Respirator Manufacturers.
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COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know
When to get tested for COVID-19:
If you have COVID-19 symptoms
At least 5 days after known or suspected close contact to COVID-19
For screening (schools, workplaces, congregate settings, etc.)
Before and after travel
When asked by a healthcare professional or public health official
A viral test tells you if you are infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, using samples that come from your nose or mouth.
There are two types of viral tests: rapid tests and laboratory tests. A laboratory test, such as a PCR test, usually provides results in 1-3 days. Results are reliable for people with and without symptoms.
A rapid test, such as an Antigen test, usually provides results in 15-30 minutes. Results may be less reliable for people without symptoms and follow-up test may be required.
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 rapid Antigen tests. Order your tests now so you have them when you need them.
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COVID Data Tracker Weekly Review
Data show that people who are fully vaccinated and boosted have the highest amount of protection against both the Delta and Omicron variants, compared with people who remain unvaccinated.
Boosters provide the most protection against infection, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. It is important to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccination to protect yourself and others.
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Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the U.S.
February 1, 2022
US states, territories, and District of Columbia have reported 75,012,446 cases of COVID-19 in the United States.
CDC provides updated U.S. case information online daily.
In addition to cases, deaths, and laboratory testing, CDC's COVID Data Tracker now has a Vaccinations tab to track distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in your state.
U.S. Cases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd Atlanta, GA 30329 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: 888-232-6348
ACIP Meeting Information
The ACIP holds three regular meetings each year, in addition to emergency sessions, at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The purpose is to review scientific data and vote on vaccine recommendations. Meetings are open to the public and available online via live webcast.
ACIP Meeting Registration
Registration is not required to watch ACIP Meeting webcasts.
Rules of Conduct for ACIP Meetings
- An interested person who wishes to make an oral public comment during an ACIP meeting should submit a request with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) before the meeting according to the instructions in the Federal Register Notice. Those who have not submitted a request before the meeting will only have an opportunity to speak as time permits or at the discretion of the Chair.
- Audience members may not present comments or questions to the Committee unless recognized by the Chair.
- Attendees may be subject to security screening, such as presenting identification, passing through metal detectors, and inspection of briefcases, packages, and so on.
- Attendees at the meeting are asked to maintain order and not display behavior that is disruptive to the meeting.
- The ACIP Chair or Designated Federal Officer will note on the record any disruptive behavior and will ask the person to cease the behavior or else leave the meeting room.
- We ask that attendees not approach the ACIP table area before, during, or after the meeting without permission from a Designated Federal Officer/Executive Secretary.
