Until a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 is widely available, public health officials urge everyone to practice the 3 W’s to help slow the spread of the highly contagious disease: Wear a mask. Watch your distance. Wash your hands. A person can be carrying the virus and not know it. Masking and physical distancing help prevent germs from spreading if someone talks, coughs or sneezes.
WEAR a mask when you cannot safely maintain a distance of 6 feet from others. Masks are required in public settings — indoors and outdoors — when around people who don’t live in your household. Be sure to wear your mask over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face, and make sure you can breathe easily.
WATCH your distance and stay at least six feet away from others who do not live in your household, whether outdoors or indoors. Avoid crowded places and gatherings, and stay home as much as possible, especially if you are sick or feel like you may be getting sick.
WASH your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
For the latest information about ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.