Simple steps you can take to protect yourself from coronavirus (COVID19)

With coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread in the U.S. and around the world, many people find themselves concerned, searching for answers. Amid the panic of this virus and the possibility of pandemic, it is difficult to avoid talking about COVID-19. At the same time, we don’t want to be complacent. Here are simple steps you can take to protect yourself according to recommendations from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to CDC’s Dr. Nancy Messonnier, the best way to protect yourself is to avoid being exposed to coronavirus. Since we are dealing with an enemy we can’t see, the most important methods of prevention seem to be to wash our hands with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, often. Soap is effective at breaking down the viral envelope that is common to all corona viruses. This envelope is a membrane that is essential to the life cycle of the virus. Washing your hands will destroy this envelope when it is outside the body. In between hand washing, you can also use a hand sanitizer.

Dr. Nancy Messonnier recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

What You Can Do to Keep Yourself and Your Family Healthy

• Take everyday preventive actions to stay healthy.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Stay informed. CDC’s COVID-19 Situation Summary will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
• If you think you might have the coronavirus, contact your health care provider.

Below is a video from CDC on what you can do to protect myself from COVID-19.

https://youtu.be/3Cx1b6H0H0E

Here is another video.