Protect Yourself & Others

Information about hygiene, social distancing, and more.

Know How it Spreads

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

  • The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
  • 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 are not showing symptoms.

Clean Your Hands Often

Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Follow these five steps every time.

  • Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
  • Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  • Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
  • Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
  • Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Symptom Monitoring

Observe your COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days if you suspect you have the disease, have been around someone who has tested positive for it, or you’ve been diagnosed.

  • First, seek emergency care right away if you develop emergency warning signs, which include: severe, constant chest pain or pressure; extreme difficulty breathing; severe, constant lightheadedness; or serious disorientation or unresponsiveness.
  • Have your medical provider’s contact information on hand.
  • Keep a log of your symptoms, including your temperature.
  • If your symptoms worsen, call your doctor immediately to update them and they will tell you what to do next.

Social Distancing

The main way COVID-19 spreads is between people. Social distancing helps to stop the spread.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home as much as possible.
  • Put distance between yourself and other people.
  • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
  • Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Cover Your Mouth and Nose

Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.

  • You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
  • Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
  • The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
  • Do not use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
  • Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Commonly used surfaces should be regularly cleaned and disinfected.

  • 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. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
  • Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectant icon will work.