Tips to Protect Yourself from COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
The 2019 Coronavirus, or COVID-19 virus, is an infectious disease similar to the cold. It travels in droplets when you cough and sneeze, and in other body fluids. Vaccination is the best means of prevention.
Learn more about Coronavirus.
Get Vaccinated
All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States are effective at preventing COVID-19. Getting a COVID-19 vaccination is a safer and more dependable way to build immunity to COVID-19 than getting sick with COVID-19.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Keep Your Distance
Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness.
Clean and Disinfect
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces at home and work.
Cover Your Mouth
Wear a well-fitting mask in accordance with CDC guidelines to reduce the spread of droplets containing COVID-19. N95 and KN95 masks offer the most protection, but surgical and cloth masks are also acceptable. While not wearing a mask, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or cough into your elbow. Throw the tissue away promptly and wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Minding Your Fingernails
Fingernails are home to dirt and germs and can help spread infections. Keep nails short and clean the undersides frequently with a nail brush, soap and water.
Stay Home
Stay home when you are sick, especially if you have a fever and are coughing or sneezing.
Avoiding Personal Contact
Replace hugs and handshakes with elbow or foot bumping, a head nod, a slight bow, or other no-touch greeting.
Hand Washing
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom; before eating and touching your any part of your face; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Hand washing is still the best way to prevent getting sick.
This information has been reviewed and approved by Lindsay Sense, RN, BSN, CMSRN (March 2022).
| The information on our website is medically reviewed and accurate at the time of publication. Due to the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, information may have since changed. CDC.gov and your state’s health department may offer additional guidance. |
