Do’s and Don’ts: Coronavirus Prevention
During an outbreak of an infectious disease such as coronavirus (COVID-19), it’s important for everyone to do their part to prevent transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following health and safety advice to help protect you and your family from illness.
Do:
Wash your hands often
Use soap and water to thoroughly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
Use hand sanitizer
Use a sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol when soap and water aren’t available. Cover all surfaces of your hands with the sanitizer and rub them together until they feel dry.
Cover coughs and sneezes
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 and immediately wash your hands.
Don’t:
Go to work or school if you’re sick
Stay home if you don’t feel well, or if you are developing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing or a fever. Avoid public areas and do not use public transportation if you’re sick.
Have close contact with people who are sick
Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for those who are at higher risk, such as older adults.
Touch your face
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are sick or are caring for someone who is sick.
In addition, you should clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces every day. This includes tables, handles and doorknobs, light switches, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets and sinks. Most common household disinfectants will work.
