5 Tips to Contain COVID-19

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water aren't available, use hand sanitizer with an alcohol content of at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol. Perform hand hygiene frequently, especially after being out in public or after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.

Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unwashed hands that can transmit germs.

To reduce the spread of illnesses, including COVID-19, avoid close contact with others when you are sick. Be alert for symptoms of COVID-19 and take your temperature. COVID-19 most commonly causes fever, cough and shortness of breath. Most people with COVID-19 will be able to rest and recover at home, but call your doctor if symptoms persist or you have difficulty breathing.

If you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19, stay home and follow the CDC’s guidance for isolation.

In crowded or public areas, avoiding close contact with others can help prevent infection transmission. The CDC recommends increasing physical distance in communities with high transmission rates. COVID-19 can spread from person to person when respiratory droplets produced by an infected person come into contact with the eyes, noses and mouths of others. These droplets are released when people cough, sneeze or talk. Visit the CDC to check community transmission rates.

Masks continue to be a key tool for infection prevention and control. People with symptoms of any illness are strongly encouraged to wear a mask to protect others. Masks are optional but recommended for patients and visitors at The University of Kansas Health System. Some areas at the health system require masking. Areas that require masking will be clearly marked.