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How to Protect Yourself and Others During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Everyone should:

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after having been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay at home as much as possible.
  • Wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public. However, this is not a substitute for social distancing.

Cover coughs and sneezes

  • If you are in a private setting and do not have your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
  • Throw used tissues in the trash.

Clean and disinfect

  • Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes: tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.
  • If surfaces are dirty, clean them using detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

Know how it spreads

  • The virus is thought to primarily spread from person-to-person transmission.
  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
  • These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
  • Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who exhibit no symptoms.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/corornavirus.