Prevention
Health officials recommend taking the same precautions for COVID-19 as you would for avoiding colds and the flu:
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Get the COVID-19 vaccine if you are eligible.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
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Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow.
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
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Stay home when you are sick.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily, like phones, tables, doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Symptoms
The CDC believes that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear 2–14 days after being exposed to the virus:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you are planning a trip overseas, keep an eye on the news and check the CDC's Information for Travelers.
Find COVID-19 information in other languages.
COVID-19 and pets
The virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals during close contact, but the risk is low. For more information on what you should know about COVID-19 and pets, visit the CDC's website.