The American Red Cross recommends the following steps to help you protect yourself and others against the spread of coronavirus.
To help prevent the spread of respiratory illness use healthy practices:
- Wash 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.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others and when you must go out in public, such as to a grocery store. The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth, and throw used tissues in a lined trash can. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow — not your hands. Wash your hands immediately.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks. Follow CDC guidance.
To prepare your household for a positive COVID-19 outbreak in the U.S., use preparedness practices:
- Obtain at least a 2-week supply of food staples, household and sanitary products, if asked to stay home.
- Keep current prescription medications in regular supply, with at least a 30-day supply of needed health items.
- Learn how your local public health authorities will provide guidance to your community and stay informed.
- Learn how your children’s school or daycare and your workplace plan to handle a possible outbreak. Create a plan to accommodate any closings, event cancellations or postponements.
- If you care for older adults or children, plan and prepare for caring for them, should they or you become sick.