How to protect yourself and others

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent the disease is to avoid exposure to this virus.
The virus is believed to spread mainly from person to person. .
- Between people who are in close contact (at a distance of up to about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.
- These droplets can end up in the mouth or nose of those who are nearby or possibly be inhaled and reach the lungs.
- Some recent studies suggest that COVID-19 can be spread through people with no symptoms.

All people should

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you’ve been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
If you don’t have soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol . Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub until you feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home. If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home .
- Remember that some people who do not have symptoms can spread the virus.
- Keep a distance of at least 6 feet (about the length of 2 arms) from other people .
- Do not gather in groups.
- Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
- Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill .

You could spread COVID-19 even if you don’t feel sick.
Everyone should wear a cloth face covering when they leave their homes, for example, to go to the grocery store or to find other necessary products.
- Cloth face covers should not be used on children younger than 2 years of age or on people with respiratory problems or who are unconscious, disabled or unable to remove them without assistance.
The cloth face covering is to protect other people in case you are infected.
DO NOT wear a mask intended for healthcare workers.
Keep a distance of about 6 feet from other people. The cloth face covering does not replace social distancing measures.

If you are in a private setting and do not have the fabric face covering on, always remember to cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Throw the used disposable tissues in the trash.
Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have soap and water, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily . This includes tables, door handles, light switches, counters, railings, desks, telephones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, and dishwashers.
If the surfaces are dirty, clean them. Wash them with soap and water and detergent before disinfecting them.
Then use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants