10 Tips to Keep You Safe During the COVID-19 Outbreak

In these challenging times, we are all navigating through uncertainty for ourselves, our loved ones and our community. We have compiled 10 tips you can follow, to help you stay healthy and safe during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation.

Beware of Internet Scams

There are all kinds of online scams related to the Coronavirus, including malware and phishing web sites, which push their information through social media, emails perceived as legitimate sources, and other forms of contact. One of the most common is a live tracker web site that pretends to know where the virus is. Avoid all of these at all costs!

Try a Calming Activity

Don’t stress yourself out! It is good to keep up to date on the Coronavirus, and to read these safety tips, of course, but you shouldn’t lose sleep, literally, or mental composure about it. Take a break from the Coronavirus by enjoying activities that take your mind off of it, relaxing from reading new stories about it, or, if it really affects you, talk to people close to you about how you’re feeling.

Keep Your Distance

Make sure to stand 6 feet away from anybody who you’ll see, in a practice of social distancing it will mean that you will not get into any close contact with anyone around you.

Clean, Clean, Clean!

Clean the surfaces of anything that you use frequently, to reduce risk of exposure. The best way to disinfect your phone is to clean it with a disinfecting wipe that has at least 70% alcohol. (See CDC recommendations for disinfecting hard surfaces)

Try “Jazz Hands”

When greeting someone, use “Jazz Hands”, “Elbow Bumps” or take bows in appreciation of one another.

Practice Social Distancing

Stay home if you can and avoid gatherings of more than ten people.

Proper Hand Washing

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Watch Your Hands

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

Think Ahead

Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra necessary medications to have on hand in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time.

Practice Good Health Habits

Get a good night’s sleep. Exercise. Drink plenty of fluids. Eat nutritious food. Take vitamins.

For the latest updates and up to date resources on COVID-19, visit CDC.gov.