Prevention

Prevention Tips

Last updated: May 26, 2022

Everyone needs to work together to help stop COVID-19 from spreading. You can take the following steps to help protect yourself, your family and your community.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• That is about how long it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song two times.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick, who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who are not vaccinated against COVID-19.

Try not to touch your face, mouth or eyes without washing your hands first.

Monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19, particularly if you have been exposed to someone who is sick.

• If you have symptoms, get tested.

Get vaccinated.

• Get a COVID-19 vaccine unless your physician says you should not.
• People who get vaccinated are less likely to get very sick. They are less likely to need to be in a hospital, and they are less likely to die from COVID-19.

Wear a mask.

Everyone ages 2 years and older should wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public areas where the COVID-19 Community Level is high. You should wear a mask even if you have been vaccinated.

You must wear a mask inside healthcare facilities.

Stay 6 feet away from others.

• If someone is sick in your home, try to stay at least 6 feet away from the person who is sick.
• If you are caring for someone who is sick, wear a mask.
• If you are not up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines, stay at least 6 feet away from others. This is very important if you are at higher risk of getting very sick with COVID-19.

If your immune system is weakened by a medication or health condition, talk to your physician. They may recommend you take other steps to protect yourself.