Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from Covid-19 is a top priority for many people. To reduce the spread of the virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Additionally, the CDC website provides guidelines on how to properly wash your hands and use hand sanitizer. To further understand the science behind this basic habit, watch the video below on how soap kills coronavirus.
Vaccination against COVID-19 is also an important step in staying safe. The vaccine is safe, effective and free, and is especially important for people who are at increased risk of developing serious illness from COVID-19, such as older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions, including pregnancy. If you are not fully vaccinated and are 2 years or older, you should wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth in closed public places. A cloth face covering may not protect the user, but it may prevent the user from transmitting the virus to others.
In areas with a high number of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended to wear a mask in crowded outdoor environments for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated or in situations where measures to social distancing are difficult to maintain. If you wear a mask when you cough or sneeze, put on a new, clean mask as soon as possible and wash your hands. If you're not wearing a mask, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow. Throw away used tissues in the trash and wash your hands immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or, if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
