Slow the Spread
This guidance is based on updated CDC recommendations for preventing respiratory viruses in most people. The March 2024 guidance provides a unified approach to addressing risks from a range of common respiratory viral illnesses, such as COVID-19, flu, and RSV.
Respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV can spread from person to person. To limit the spread of these illnesses, follow these steps.
Adapted from Ian Mackay, The Swiss Cheese Infographic that Went Viral Dec 2020
Stay up to date on vaccines
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- Find COVID-19 and flu vaccine appointments on vaccines.gov.
- Ask your healthcare provider about getting protected from RSV, especially if you are:
- Over 60 years old (for vaccine)
- 32–36 weeks pregnant during September–January (for vaccine to protect newborn baby)
- An infant born during or entering first respiratory illness season (for antibodies medicine)
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Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly
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- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly (at least daily when someone in household is sick).
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Wash your hands, cover coughs/sneezes |
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- If handwashing is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
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Improve indoor air |
- Bring outdoor air indoors. Filter air to lower the amount of virus in your home and work.
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Stay away from others if sick
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Wear a mask |
- Wear a mask with the best fit, protection, and comfort, when required or recommended.
- You may choose to mask at any time.
- People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to a respiratory illness should wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public.
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Keep safer distances from others |
- Keep as much distance as possible from people who do not live with you.
- Avoid large crowds if you cannot keep safe distances.
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Get tested
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- A test can tell you what illness you have and inform your treatment and prevention actions.
- A healthcare provider can tell you if you need a test. You can buy some tests over the counter.
- For COVID–19 or flu, your provider may prescribe medicines to make your symptoms less severe or shorten the time you are sick.
- Consider testing before you are around anyone at high risk, and especially if you or a household member are at high risk for serious illness from a respiratory infection.
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