What to Know and Do

Every person has a role to play. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Public Health Services (PHS) recommends taking everyday precautions to help stop the spread of respiratory viruses that are the same precautions you would take to avoid the flu.

Wash your hands frequently with water and soap for at least 20 seconds; especially:

After going to the bathroom.
Before eating.
After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with 60%-95% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If tissues are not available, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces at home, work and school.
Practice healthy habits: get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
If you have not received your annual flu shot, please schedule one with your provider to help protect yourself against the flu.
Stay 6 feet away from people you do not live with.
Use a simple cloth face covering to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. On June 18, 2020, the California Department of Public Health issued the Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings that mandates face coverings be worn state-wide in certain circumstances and with a few exceptions.