There has been so much conflicting information about the global Coronavirus pandemic that it can be difficult to know what steps to take to keep safe in the pandemic. The more we learn about COVID-19 and how it is transmitted, the more we can focus our efforts on preventing the spread of disease. We have put together a top-10 list for COVID safety, based on the latest scientific information about the disease.
- Practice social distancing. Whenever possible, keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who do not share your household.
- Wear a mask. Wearing even a basic mask when outside of your home in an enclosed public space helps keep you from spreading COVID-19 to others if you happen to be infected.
- Avoid unmasked people. If you live in a location where masks are not mandatory, avoid locations frequented by people who are not wearing masks.
- Wash your hands. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer when unable to wash your hands.
- Don’t touch your face. Touching your face with dirty hands is one way to get COVID- avoiding touching your face with dirty hands can help keep you safe.
- Clean high-touch surfaces. Think of the things you touch the most- doorknobs, light switches, and cell phones come to mind- they need to be cleaned and sanitized regularly.
- Avoid contact with sick people. If you have symptoms that could be COVID-19, self-quarantine and avoid contact with people until you have a negative COVID test result. Avoiding being around people who are showing signs of illness.
- Use a tissue. If you have to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with the tissue, then dispose of the tissue in the trash.
- Stay home to stay safe. While COVID-19 safety does not mean complete isolation for many people, it does mean limiting interactions when it is possible to do so.
- Pick a reliable information source. WHO and the CDC take a science-based approach to the Coronavirus. While their information may change as we learn more about the Coronavirus, you can rely on them for up-to-date information about the pandemic.
