How to Reduce Your Risk of Contracting COVID-19

The CDC Reports 8 out of 10 COVID-19 deaths reported in the U.S. have been in adults 65 years old and older.  Older adults are also at higher risk for severe illness.  Here is how you can take care of yourself and those you love.

  1. WEAR A MASK

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover/mask when around others.  Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public. The only individuals who should not wear a cloth face covering are children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, or is incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.  Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

face mask

  1. Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home

Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.

  1. Wash your hands often

The proper way to wash your hands

How to make homemade hand sanitizer

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

  1. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily

This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, counter tops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

  1. Be alert for symptoms of COVID-19.

Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell.  Other symptoms may include:  fatigue, headache, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea.

  1. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider.

For more information about older adults and COVID 19, go to https://www.cdc.gov/aging/covid19-guidance.html

  1. But, if you are confirmed as positive for COVID-19,

Here are 10 Things You Can Do to Manage COVID-19 at Home (English) / (Spanish)