What You Can Do to Slow the Spread

The best way to avoid illness is to not be exposed to the virus. The CDC has issued a number of recommendations Americans can implement to protect themselves, which are summarized below. To read the CDC's full list of recommendations, click HERE. 

Know how it spreads: The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person and between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). According to the CDC, some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.

Wash your hands often: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. It’s especially important to wash before eating or preparing food, before touching your face, after using the restroom, after leaving a public place, and 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.

Wear a mask when possible: Masks are meant to protect other people in case you are infected and should be worn in public settings. Masks 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. 

Clean and disinfect frequently: This includes frequently touched surfaces like tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them with detergent or soap followed by a disinfectant.

Monitor Your Health Daily: Be alert for symptoms such as a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, among others. Take your temperature if symptoms develop and follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.