There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus, which is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people that are in close contact with one another (within about  six feet) via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people that are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after visiting a public place, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people that are sick.

Practice social distancing: this is especially important for people that are at higher risk of getting very sick. Stay home if you’re sick except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick. Cover coughs, sneezes and nose with a tissue or use the inside of an elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash and wash hands.

If you are sick, wear a facemask around other people. If you are not sick, you do not need to wear a facemask unless caring for someone that is sick. Facemasks are in short supply and should be saved for caregivers.

Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily, including tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.

If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. To disinfect, most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work.