We all can do our part to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Many cases have mild or moderate illness and do not require a clinic visit and most do not require hospitalization. Because not everyone who experiences symptoms will be tested, some may have the virus and not even know.
We can all take steps to prevent spreading COVID-19 to those who may become seriously ill. Knowing how COVID-19 spreads is the first step to prevention.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person, between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). An infected person can spread the virus when respiratory droplets from their coughs or sneezes land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. A person also may get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest), though some spread might be possible before people show symptoms. There have been reports of this occurring with COVID-19, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
You can help prevent the spread by following these recommendations from the CDC:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially 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.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Put distance between yourself and other people.
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- 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.
- Wear a face mask if you are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
For more information, visit cdc.gov/covid19.
We can help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Together, we will.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)