Helping Prevent COVID-19

Overview

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. It is very contagious and spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and small particles that contain the virus, especially during close or prolonged contact or in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces. For most people, COVID-19 causes mild illness. For some people, it can lead to severe illness that may affect the lungs and other parts of the body and may result in hospitalization or death.

Preventive actions can help reduce the chances of getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. Taking preventive actions is especially important for people at higher risk of severe COVID-19. Examples of risk factors for severe COVID-19 include:

• Being age 65 or older.
• Having chronic heart, kidney, liver, or lung disease.
• Having diabetes.
• Having a weakened immune system or a condition that can weaken the immune system, such as cancer, HIV, or sickle cell disease.

To reduce the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19, a person can take several preventive actions:

• • Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccination based on current guidance and your individual risk. COVID-19 vaccines help protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccination is especially important for adults ages 65 and older, people at higher risk for severe COVID-19, and people who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine. Parents and caregivers of children ages 6 months to 17 years should discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination with a healthcare professional.

Improve indoor air quality when possible. Bringing in fresh outdoor air, using air filtration, or spending time outdoors can help lower the amount of virus in the air.

• • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Avoid crowded places and keep distance from others when possible, especially in indoor settings.
  • Wear a mask when it adds protection, especially in crowded indoor places, around people who are sick, or when you or someone around you is at higher risk for severe COVID-19. A well-fitting mask or respirator should cover both the nose and mouth.
• If you get COVID-19, stay home and away from other people when you are sick to help prevent spreading COVID-19. You can return to normal activities when your symptoms are improving overall and you have not had a fever for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medicine. Consider testing for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or have been exposed. After you return to normal activities, take added precautions for several days, such as wearing a well-fitting mask, improving ventilation, and avoiding close contact with people at higher risk.

If you are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 and develop symptoms, contact a healthcare professional promptly. Treatment works best when started early, and some antiviral medicines must be started within the first few days of illness.

Prevention recommendations may change as COVID-19 variants and public health guidance evolve. Stay informed by following reputable sources, such as your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you have questions or concerns about COVID-19 prevention, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.