Last modified:
07/29/2021 - 08:36
- Physical distancing
Physical distancing means staying at least two metres or six feet apart from other people. This is especially important when there is community spread of COVID-19 where you live, and in enclosed settings where there are many people. Distancing makes it harder for the virus to travel from one person to another. - Masks
Masking is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Hundreds of contagious droplets can be generated by just speaking to someone, but nearly all of them are blocked when wearing a mask. When masking is normalized (common practice) in communities, studies show that COVID-19 cases are significantly reduced. Masking is most important in crowded settings where physical distancing is difficult to maintain. - Cleaning surfaces
Cleaning frequently touched surfaces with a household cleaner that contains soap or detergent adds another layer of safety and should be done often. In most situations, cleaning alone removes most virus particles on surfaces. Disinfection can be used if someone in your home is sick with COVID-19 to make sure germs are destroyed quickly and efficiently. - Hand washing
Washing your hands is important because you are very likely to touch around your face or nose. If COVID-19 germs are on your hands there is a chance you will become exposed to the virus. While water may rinse off dirt, COVID-19 particles are very small and can present even in the tiny lines or folds on our skin or under your nails. Soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer and at least 20 seconds of scrubbing is needed to attach to the germs to remove them. - Stay home when sick
It is always important to stay home when you are not feeling well so you do not pass on any contagious respiratory illnesses. Because COVID-19 greater potential to lead to severe disease, it is extra important to stay home when unwell to be sure not to spread it to others. It is also important to get tested so if you do have COVID-19, public health is aware and can contact others you may have been in contact with while protecting your privacy. - Self-monitoring
Self-monitoring for symptoms means paying close attention to how you feel. Now that we need to get used to living with COVID-19, it is a good idea for all of us to take notice of how we are feeling instead of carrying on with our day to day activities and ignoring symptoms.