Protect: Practical Ways to Stay Safe from COVID-19

Worried about catching or spreading COVID? You don’t need complicated rules. Small, sensible steps cut risk a lot. Below are clear, practical actions you can use today to protect yourself, your family, and people who are more vulnerable.

Everyday steps to protect yourself

Wear a well-fitted mask in crowded indoor places. If you want stronger protection, use an N95, KN95, or KF94. Make sure the mask seals around your nose and cheeks—gaps let air through.

Keep indoor spaces aired out. Open windows or doors when people gather. A fan that moves air toward an open window helps. If you host often, consider a portable HEPA filter for rooms you use a lot.

Wash hands with soap for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Do this after being in public places, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.

Get vaccinated and stay up to date on boosters. Vaccines cut your chances of severe illness and make infections shorter and less likely to spread. If you’re unsure about boosters, check local health advice or ask your doctor.

Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor settings when case numbers are rising. If you must attend, wear a high-quality mask and limit time spent inside.

If you care for older adults or someone with a weak immune system, take extra steps: test before visits, meet outdoors when possible, and use N95 masks during close contact.

What to do if you have symptoms or test positive

If you feel sick or think you were exposed, take a rapid antigen test. They give quick results and are useful for deciding whether to limit contact. A PCR test is more sensitive—use it if you need confirmation.

If you test positive, isolate from others as soon as you can. Try to use a separate room and bathroom if available. Wear a mask when you must be around others and clean high-touch surfaces.

Follow local isolation guidance, but a practical rule is to isolate for at least 5 days from symptom start or positive test, and wear a mask around others for 10 days. Watch for warning signs—difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever—and get medical help if they appear.

Keep medicines on hand for symptoms: fever reducers, fluids, rest. Check in by phone or text with your doctor if you’re in a higher-risk group: older age, chronic illness, or immune problems.

Protecting yourself from COVID is mostly about consistent small actions: masks, air, vaccines, testing, and smart isolation when needed. Use these tips to lower risk without turning your life upside down.