What you should know about COVID-19
to protect yourself and others
Know about COVID-19
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused
by a virus that can spread from person
to person.
• The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new
coronavirus that has spread throughout
the world.
• COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild
(or no symptoms) to severe illness.
Know how COVID-19 is spread
• You can become infected by coming into
close contact (about 6 feet or two
arm lengths) with a person who has
COVID-19. COVID-19 is primarily spread
from person to person.
• You can become infected from respiratory
droplets when an infected person coughs,
sneezes, or talks.
• You may also be able to get it by touching a
surface or object that has the virus on it, and
then by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Protect yourself and others from COVID-19
• There is currently no vaccine to protect
against COVID-19. The best way to protect
yourself is to avoid being exposed to the
virus that causes COVID-19.
• Stay home as much as possible and avoid
close contact with others.
• Wear a mask that covers your nose and
mouth in public settings.
• Clean and disinfect frequently
touched surfaces.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-
based hand sanitizer that contains at least
60% alcohol.
Practice social distancing
• Buy groceries and medicine,
go to the doctor, and
complete banking activities
online when possible.
• If you must go in person,
stay at least 6 feet away from
others and disinfect items you
must touch.
• Get deliveries and takeout,
and limit in-person contact as
much as possible.
Prevent the spread of
COVID-19 if you are sick
• Stay home if you are sick,
except to get medical care.
• Avoid public transportation,
ride-sharing, or taxis.
• Separate yourself from other
people and pets in your home.
• There is no specific treatment
for COVID-19, but you can seek
medical care to help relieve
your symptoms.
• If you need medical attention,
call ahead.
Know your risk for
severe illness
• Everyone is at risk of
getting COVID-19.
• Older adults and people of
any age who have serious
underlying medical conditions
may be at higher risk for more
severe illness.
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cdc.gov/coronavirus
CS 314937A 06/01/2020