It’s an uncertain time. But there are things you can do to avoid getting sick and feel more in control during the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you
- Wear a mask, even if you have been vaccinated
- Keep 6 feet from others who are not in your household
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
If you don’t have soap handy, you can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure that it is made with at least 60% alcohol.
Also, it's important to do what you would usually do to avoid getting sick including:
- Cover sneezes and coughs – use the inside of your elbow, not your hands
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Clean surfaces touched often – for example, doorknobs, handles, phones, keypads, or remote controls
- Get vaccinated against the flu and pneumococcal disease if you haven’t already as any illness can weaken your ability to fight another infection
Beyond these tried-and-true measures, people with existing heart conditions should take additional steps to stay healthy and heart strong