The following are a list of precautions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to take to remain safe during COVID-19. 

  According to a directive on the CDC website, it states that “the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.”

  As the coronavirus is mainly contracted from person-to-person contact, social distancing of at least 6 feet is important. If you do not need to go out, stay home to minimize the risk of exposure. For those with underlying medical conditions, have a weakened immune system, or are pregnant, it is important that you stay home to avoid contact with others as much as possible. 

  Washing one’s hands often and for at least 20 seconds with antibacterial soap is important, especially after one has coughed, sneezed, or traveled out in public. If you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. 

  It is also important that you keep your hands away from your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover your mouth with a tissue, cloth, or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

  For the surfaces in your household that are touched on a regular basis, such as light switches, door handles, counters or remote controls, etc., clean and disinfect them on a regular basis. 

  The CDC has recently recommended that you wear a cloth face covering if you must go out in public. It is suggested that you do not use face masks meant for healthcare workers, as there is a current supply shortage. 

  In regard to the uptick in takeout food and concerns regarding its safety, the CDC states that “based on information about this novel coronavirus thus far, it seems unlikely that COVID-19 can be transmitted through food – additional investigation is needed.”

  According to the Food and Drug Administration website, “currently there is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19.”  

  As stated above, it is important to wash one’s hands prior to eating after one has been out in public to retrieve the takeout food. For extra precaution for takeout/delivery items, wash your hands after receiving the food and prior to eating the food after it has been taken out of the delivery bag.

  For more information about how to stay healthy during this time, visit www.cdc.gov.