Remember the days when double masking and wearing gloves to the grocery store were the norm? Those viral videos demonstrating how to disinfect every single package that entered our homes seem like a distant memory now. Thankfully, we have clearer and more effective measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The CDC has recently revised its safety guidelines based on the latest understanding of the virus. While some recommendations, such as wearing masks and washing hands, remain unchanged since March of last year, there have been significant updates. Here’s the current information regarding how to stay safe and protect others from COVID-19.
Wear a Mask Correctly
The CDC emphasizes that “masks help prevent you from getting or spreading the virus.” It is crucial to wear a mask that covers both your mouth and nose in public and whenever you’re near individuals outside your household. Remember, the virus can be spread by those who aren’t showing symptoms. Masks are not recommended for children under two or for individuals who have difficulty breathing or are unable to remove the mask without assistance. Even with a mask, social distancing is still essential.
Avoid Crowds and Poorly Ventilated Areas
Whether indoors with someone who is infected or outside running errands, maintain a distance of six feet from others. The CDC notes that even asymptomatic individuals can transmit the virus. Six feet is roughly the length of two arm’s spans. Avoid crowded places like gyms, restaurants, and bars, and ensure good ventilation when indoors by opening windows and doors.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Proper hand hygiene is vital. The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, especially after being in public spaces, coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. Other key times to wash include before preparing food, before eating, after using the restroom, and after caring for someone who is sick. If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes
Always cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, using a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Dispose of used tissues immediately, and wash your hands afterward, or use hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
High-traffic areas in your home should be cleaned and disinfected daily, with special attention to tables, doorknobs, light switches, and other frequently touched items. The cleaning process involves two steps: first, clean with soap or detergent, then apply an approved disinfectant to kill the virus.
Monitor Your Health
Keep track of your symptoms, which may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and loss of taste or smell, among others. If you experience any symptoms, get tested and stay home if you suspect you have COVID-19. Most people experience mild illness, so focus on resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications as needed.
Stay Home and Isolate
When at home, maintain distance from others, including pets, and wear a mask if you need to leave your space. Inform your healthcare provider about your symptoms and seek emergency help if you experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or persistent chest pain.
Remember, even with holidays approaching, we must adhere to safety guidelines. Small gatherings can pose significant risks, so it’s crucial to continue protecting ourselves and our loved ones.
Though many are eager to return to normalcy, it’s essential to stay vigilant. The availability of vaccines does not mean the pandemic is over. Each individual plays a role in reducing the spread of COVID-19.
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Summary
The CDC has updated its COVID-19 safety guidelines to reflect new understandings of the virus. Key recommendations include wearing masks correctly, avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, practicing frequent hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting high-contact surfaces, monitoring health for symptoms, and isolating at home if symptomatic. Staying informed and cautious remains essential even as the vaccine rollout continues.