How to Protect Yourself
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw it in the trash. Immediately wash your hands or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
How do I know the difference between a cold, allergies, flu and COVID-19.
Cold or allergy symptoms typically include itchy eyes, stuffy nose, and sneezing.
Flu or coronavirus symptoms include fever, fatigue, body aches, cough, and worsening symptoms.
Coronavirus symptoms may also include shortness of breath. The individual will often have a history of recent international travel and/or exposure to someone testing positive for the virus.
I Think I Have COVID-19. What should I do?
The Centers for Disease Control recommends the following if you think you have been exposed to or have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19:
Stay home. People who have mild symptoms are instructed to isolate themselves at home.
Avoid public areas. Do not go to work or school.
Do not use any form of public transportation including buses, ride-sharing or taxis.
Stay away from others in your home and use a separate bathroom if possible to limit their exposure.
Limit contact with pets/animals. It is still unknown if COVID-19 affects animals.
Don’t share personal household items like dishes, glasses, utensils, towels, and bedding. Wash these items thoroughly with soap and water after use.
Clean and disinfect “high touch” areas frequently.
Monitor your symptoms and contact your health care provider if your symptoms worsen. Be sure to tell the provider if you have, or are being evaluated for, COVID-19.
What else can I do to be prepared?
State health departments advise taking these measures in the event
Keep basic health supplies on hand including pain relievers, cough, cold and stomach medications, and a thermometer.
Refill prescription medications if necessary.
Have an adequate supply of tissues, soap and hand sanitizer.
For the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Coronavirus website.