NHL reduces COVID-19 isolation period for vaccinated players

The NHL and NHLPA agreed Wednesday to modify the COVID-19 protocol for vaccinated players and personnel, shortening the isolation period for those who have tested positive from 10 days to five days if certain conditions are met.

If people don't have symptoms or their symptoms are resolving, and they don't have a fever, they can leave protocol by producing one or two negative test results (depending on test type) or a positive lab-based PCR with a cycle threshold (CT) that suggests they aren't contagious.

Players also need medical clearance from the team physician and can only exit isolation after five days if that is in compliance with local health regulations.

The NHL noted that health and safety mandates may be stricter than the protocol in certain jurisdictions. The Canadian government has imposed more rigid pandemic-related regulations than the U.S. and the league has already postponed nine Canadian games because of attendance limits in certain cities.

Individuals who are experiencing a fever must isolate until the fever resolves.

The day of the positive test isn't part of the five-day isolation period. Players can test out of isolation on or after the fourth day.

After exiting protocol, players must wear a mask for five days except for during games and practices. All other aspects of the protocol remain in place, including cardiac screenings.

The league's protocols were updated in response to this week's new guidelines from the CDC.

The NBA and NFL made similar changes earlier this week to reduce isolation periods for players who test positive.

The NHL has been dealing with mass postponements of games as COVID-19 cases rise across North America, and the league just returned to action from an extended holiday pause on Dec. 28.