(Reuters] – CVS Health Corp and Walgreens Boots Alliance have reduced paid sick time for COVID-19 positive workers. This was in response to a U.S. change in health guidance.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated their recommendations to recommend that patients isolate for at least five days following a COVID-19-related infection.

CVS spokesperson said the company provides five days paid leave to eligible part- and full-time employees, except in cases where paid leave laws of other cities or states provide more. 

Company also stated that only employees who have been approved by their local authorities for reasonable accommodation and are currently vaccinated can receive paid time off.

Walgreens stated that they are providing COVID-19-related paid leave benefits to employees for five days. After February 23, Walgreens will provide the same benefit for five more days for those who have been fully vaccinated, and also for people who test positive for COVID-19.

Each company offered paid time off up to 2 weeks earlier.

Company added that workers who do not have a valid medical exemption or religion will be able to continue receiving the paid leave benefit.

Walmart (NYSE 🙂 announced that employees in the United States will now receive one week’s paid leave, rather than two, for those who are sick or in pain.

Amazon (NASDAQ) stated that workers who are infected can get up to 40 hours of paid leave if they have been isolated for a shorter time.