Important update: Healthcare facilities
CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Learn more
UPDATE
Given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.
UPDATE
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines. More information is available here.

Prevent the Spread of COVID-19

Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
Updated Sept. 9, 2022
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How Does COVID-19 Spread?

COVID-19 can spread easily.
COVID-19 can spread between people.
Anyone who has COVID-19 can spread it to others.
People with COVID-19 without symptoms can spread it to others.

COVID-19 can spread when people are too close together.
COVID-19 can spread when people cough.
COVID-19 can spread when people sneeze.
COVID-19 can spread when people talk.
COVID-19 can spread when people sing.

Fresh Air Helps Stop COVID-19

When you are with other people, spend time outdoors.
Staying outside can help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
When you are inside, open windows to bring in fresh air.

Washing Your Hands Helps Stop COVID-19

COVID-19 may get on your hands.
You may get sick if you touch your face with COVID-19 on your hands.
Wash your hands before you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Wash your hands often.
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Wash your hands for 20 seconds or longer.
Sing the happy birthday song twice while washing your hands.

Use hand sanitizer if that is all you have.
Rub the hand sanitizer all over your hands.
Rub your hands until they feel dry.
Washing your hands with soap and water is best.

You may spread COVID-19 to animals.
Avoid touching animals outside your home.
Wash your hands after you touch animals.

COVID-19 Vaccines Help Stop COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccines can help keep you from getting very sick.
COVID-19 vaccines can keep you from going to the hospital.
Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines.

Keeping a Safe Distance Helps Stop COVID-19

Stay away from people who are sick.
Stay away from people who have COVID-19.
Stay away from people with COVID-19 even if they don’t feel sick.
Stay away from crowds.
Stay away from inside places with lots of people.

Wearing a Mask Helps Stop COVID-19

Wear a mask to protect everyone.
The mask must cover your nose and mouth.
The mask must fit under your chin.
The mask must be snug on your face.
Make sure breathing is easy.

There are different kinds of masks.
One type of mask is called an N95 respirator.
N95 respirators are best at keeping people safe.
Only use an N95 respirator one time.

Development of these materials was supported by a grant from the CDC Foundation, using funding provided by its donors. The materials were created by the Center for Literacy & Disability Studies, Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation at Georgia Tech. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided subject matter expertise and approved the content. The use of the names of private entities, products, or enterprises is for identification purposes only and does not imply CDC endorsement.

Project funding ended 9/30/2021. All edits after that date are completed solely by CDC.