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.
UPDATE
Travel requirements to enter the United States are changing, starting November 8, 2021. More information is available here.

Transmission

Transmission
Updated July 12, 2021
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humans wearing masks

Stop the Spread

Learn what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19.

Omicron Variant

The Omicron Variant of Concern has been detected in the United States. CDC is following the details of this new variant. CDC’s Media Statement

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About Variants
Viruses are constantly changing, including the virus that causes COVID-19. These changes occur over time and can lead to the emergence of variants that may have new characteristics. Vaccines continue to reduce a person's risk of contracting the virus that cause COVID-19. Vaccines are highly effective against severe illness.

How to Protect Yourself

When to wear a mask if you are not fully vaccinated
  • If you are not fully vaccinated and aged 2 or older, you should wear a mask in indoor public places.
  • In general, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings.
    • In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated.

When Fully Vaccinated

Protect Yourself

If You are Sick

When you are fully vaccinated

If you are fully vaccinated, you can participate in many of the activities that you did before the pandemic. Getting vaccinated prevents severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Unvaccinated people should get vaccinated and continue masking until they are fully vaccinated. To maximize protection from variants and prevent possibly spreading the virus to others, fully vaccinated people should wear a mask indoors in public in areas of substantial or high transmission.  With the emergence of variants, this is more urgent than ever. Learn more about what you can do when you have been fully vaccinated.

Have questions about getting or spreading COVID-19 after being vaccinated?

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine myths and facts.

Handouts & Posters
Stop the Spread of Germs

Stop the Spread of Germs

Wear a mask, stay home when sick, wash your hands and more tips to help stop the spread. View PDF pdf icon[537 KB, 1 page]

Infographic: Help protect yourself and others from COVID-19

Protect Yourself & Others

Stay 6 feet apart, wear a mask, and wash your hands to stop spread of COVID-19. View PDF pdf icon[309 KB, 1 page]