How can I help to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus?

Respiratory viruses are generally spread through respiratory secretions (droplets from coughs and sneezes) of an infected person to another person. Everyone is advised to take many of the same steps they do to help prevent colds and the flu.

  • Wash your hands often, using soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer until soap and water is available.
  • Cough/sneeze into a tissue. Dispose of used tissues immediately into a trash can. If you don’t have a tissue, cough/sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick, and especially if you are coughing or sneezing.
  • Monitor your temperature. (A fever is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.) Remain home from work or school if you have a fever or you aren’t feeling well.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that you touch frequently such as doorknobs, railings, sink handles, phones, and computer keyboards.

Show All Answers

1. What are the symptoms of novel coronavirus?
2. How can I help to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus?
3. What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
4. How does 2019 novel coronavirus spread from person to person?
5. How many cases of COVID-19 novel coronavirus are there currently in Massachusetts?