7 Practical Steps to Keep Yourself and Others Safe from COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on, it's crucial to prioritize our health and well-being.

While vaccines have been developed and distributed, it's still essential to implement preventative measures to avoid getting infected and transmitting the virus to others.

---

How to keep COVID-19 away?

In this article, we will explore seven practical steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

#1 Wear a Mask

• Choose a mask that fits snugly over your nose, mouth, and chin.
• Avoid touching your mask while wearing it, and always wash your hands before and after removing it.
• Replace disposable masks after each use, and wash reusable masks after each wear.
• Wear a mask in any indoor setting outside your home, and crowded outdoor settings.

#2 Practice Social Distancing

• Keep at least six feet of distance between yourself and others, even if you're wearing a mask.
• Avoid close contact, such as hugging or shaking hands, with people outside your household.
• Choose outdoor activities over indoor ones, whenever possible.
• Consider limiting the number of people you interact with to a small, consistent group.

#3 Wash Your Hands Regularly

• Use soap and water to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public space.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if you do not have access to soap and water.
• Dry your hands with a clean towel, or air dry them.

#4 Avoid Crowds and Gatherings

• Follow local guidelines for gathering limits and event capacities.
• Consider virtual gatherings instead of in-person ones.
• If you must attend an event or gathering, do it outdoors, and wear a mask.
• Avoid crowded indoor spaces, such as bars, restaurants, and gyms.

#5 Clean and Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces

• Use household disinfectants to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches, and keyboards.
• Consider using touchless technology, such as motion-activated lights and automatic faucets, to minimize surface contact.
• Wash bedding and towels regularly in the warmest water setting recommended by the manufacturer.
• Ventilate your home by opening windows and using air purifiers.

#6 Stay Home if You are Sick

• If you experience symptoms of COVID-19, like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, stay home and get tested.
• Follow guidelines for self-isolation and quarantine if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
• Contact your healthcare provider or local health department for guidance on the next steps.
• Monitor your symptoms, and seek medical attention if they worsen.

#7 Get Vaccinated

• Follow local guidelines for vaccine eligibility and availability.
• Consider getting vaccinated as soon as you are eligible.
• Consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about the vaccine.
• Continue to follow preventative measures even after getting vaccinated to protect yourself and others.

---

COVID-19 is a serious disease that has affected millions of people worldwide. While there's no guaranteed way to avoid getting infected, implementing preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

By following the aforementioned steps and local guidelines, you can protect yourself and others from COVID-19 and help slow the spread of the virus. Together, we can overcome this pandemic and emerge stronger and healthier than ever before.