How can I best reduce my risk of being exposed to or spreading COVID-19?

Per the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can be breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, noses or mouth. In some circumstances, they may contaminate surfaces they touch. People who are closer than 6 feet from the infected person are most likely to get infected.

COVID-19 is spread in three main ways:

Breathing in air when close to an infected person who is exhaling small droplets and particles that contain the virus.

Having these small droplets and particles that contain virus land on the eyes, nose or mouth, especially through splashes and sprays like a cough or sneeze.

Touching eyes, nose or mouth with hands that have the virus on them.

You can protect yourself by getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, staying physically distant from others outside of your household, avoiding crowds or poorly ventilated spaces, washing your hands often, cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and monitoring your health daily. For additional information, visit the CDC website.

Last Modified: 
September 7, 2021