Prevention

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the coronavirus and to use practices that reduce its spread. This can best be accomplished by:

Avoiding Close Contact

• Put distance between yourself and other people. Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
• Stay at least 6 feet (about the length of two arms) from other people.
• Avoid gathering in groups.
• Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
• Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting sick.

Use of Face Coverings

• Face coverings are encouraged on campus, especially for those who are not fully vaccinated, but they are not required.

Frequent Handwashing

• 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.
• If soap and water are not readily 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.

Practicing Respiratory and Cough Etiquette

• Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
• Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This should be done often, especially after blowing noses, coughing or sneezing, or having been in a public place.
• If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

Following Other Good Hygiene Practices

• Make sure to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid personal contact with sick people.
• Avoid sharing food, cups or utensils.
• To the extent possible, avoid touching high-touch surfaces in public places and minimize handling cash, credit cards, and mobile or electronic devices.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Follow CDC cleaning recommendations.

Awareness

• Be aware of your health, and if you feel the onset of any COVID-19 symptoms, contact your health care provider.
• Be generally aware of who you are in close contact with, especially for extended periods of time, so that contact tracing can be performed if you become symptomatic.
• Cooperate with contact tracers to provide information about others with whom you have had close contact.