When considering personal preparedness, it is important to keep a few points in mind. First, infectious disease experts are emphasizing that coronavirus causes an illness that is similar to the flu. While a vaccine for coronavirus is not expected to be available for at least 12-18 months, everyday habits that protect us from common respiratory illness are even more important now. We all can protect our own health as well as the health of our family members and community by remembering:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often, using either soap and water or alcohol-based hand gel for at least 20 seconds
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe

When hands are visibly dirty, contaminated or soiled, wash with non-antimicrobial or antimicrobial soap and water. Always wash your hands before eating and after using the restroom.  Use warm water with a nickel to quarter size of liquid soap. Lather, rub all surfaces and under nails. Rub for at least 15 seconds and rinse well. Dry hands with a paper towel, use that towel to turn off faucets and open the door. 

If hands are not visibly soiled, use an alcohol-based hand rub for routinely decontaminating hands. Cover all surfaces until hands feel dry, approximately 20 seconds. After approximately 10 uses, wash your hands with soap and friction. 

For more information on proper hand washing, click here and here.