Prevention

While COVID-19 is front and center in the news, we are in the peak of flu season, and the basics of infection prevention remain paramount for all of us. 

• Get a flu shot. 
• Clean your hands frequently – wash your hands with soap and warm water for a minimum of 20 seconds, especially before you eat. 
• Use portable alcohol hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol 
• Don't touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth. 
• Practice social distancing – stay at least 6 feet away from others. 
• Stay at home at much as possible and avoid crowded spaces. 
• Cough and sneeze into your sleeve, elbow or a tissue. Throw used tissues in the trash. Then wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. 
• If you have a cough, wear a mask. 
• If you have a cough, fever or don't feel well, stay away from others and consider not visiting loved ones in the hospital. 
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 
• Avoid traveling to countries the CDC has highlighted as having widespread, sustained transmission. 

Video: What can I do to avoid coronavirus? 

Why Slowing the Contagion is Key

The virus is highly contagious. Nearly everyone will get COVID-19 at some point, Dr. Lahey said. So it's unlikely that anything will completely stop it, which is why slowing it down is so critical.