People who have COVID-19 are allowed to break quarantine to vote, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on its website Sunday.
“Voters have the right to vote, regardless of whether they are sick or in quarantine,” the CDC wrote on its website. (RELATED: CDC Says Coronavirus Cases Could Be 10 Times Higher Than Reported)
The CDC, which urges quarantine or isolation for coronavirus-positive individuals and those who believe they have come into contact with someone who has the virus, wrote that there is an exception for people trying to vote on Tuesday. The CDC said voters with COVID-19 should wear a mask and inform people working at the polling centers that they are sick, among other precautions.
Election inspector David Hopkinson works at the Emanuel First Lutheran School polling spot November 03, 2020 in Lansing, Michigan. (John Moore/Getty Images)
“Voters who are sick or in quarantine should take steps to protect poll workers and other voters,” according to the CDC. “This includes wearing a mask, staying at least 6 feet away from others, and washing your hands or using hand sanitizer before and after voting.”
“You should also let poll workers know that you are sick or in quarantine when you arrive at the polling location. Check with local authorities for any additional guidance,” the website reads.
The CDC also prepared a list of precautions for non-coronavirus positive voters on Election Day. These include having someone take care of loved ones, being prepared before arriving to a voting location and washing your hands often.