Protect Yourself From COVID-19
Understanding how the virus spreads is an important part of protecting yourself from COVID-19.
Going forward, though, the most important way you can protect yourself from the virus as well as others is to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you.
Coronavirus transmission can happen in a variety of ways. Steps to protect yourself and others against the spread of coronavirus:
Wash Your Hands
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.
If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer.
Learn how to wash your hands properly.
Avoid Contact
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Practice social distancing (putting space between yourself and others) with all, especially if you are at higher risk.
- Follow government guidance about staying home and only go out for necessities like grocery shopping.
Wear Masks
- The CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask in public.
- If you are sick or have symptoms of the coronavirus, wear a mask around other people.
- When you find it difficult to maintain at least six feet of distance from people you don't live with – such as exercising on a sidewalk – it's important to have your mask on.
You should always have your mask on hand when you leave your home. Learn more about mask myths.
Cover Your Mouth and Nose
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or use the inside of your elbow. Throw your tissue away immediately.
Also, avoid touching your face or the front of your mask.
Clean and Disinfect
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
Do not share objects: Coronavirus spreads primarily from person-to-person, but there is also a chance that you could get infected from contaminated surfaces.
If You Are Sick
Stay home. Do not leave your home except for medical care, if you have coronavirus symptoms.
Wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider's office.
If you are not able to wear a facemask, (e.g., because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room.
Learn more about how to treat coronavirus at home.
Updated 12/16/2020
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