What can I do to avoid becoming ill? The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. The CDC and WHO recommend following these precautions:Keep at least 6 feet (2 meters) of distance between yourself and people outside your household.Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.Wear a mask in public places, especially when social distancing is difficult.Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away the used tissue.Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.Clean and disinfect surfaces you often touch on a daily basis. If you have a chronic medical condition and may have a higher risk of serious illness, check with your doctor about other ways to protect yourself.Should I wear a mask? The CDC and WHO recommend that people wear cloth face coverings in public when social distancing is difficult. This advice is based on evidence that people with COVID-19 can transmit the COVID-19 virus before they realize they have it. Using masks in public may help reduce the spread from people who don't have symptoms. Non-medical cloth masks are recommended for the public. Surgical masks may be used if available. In some locations, surgical masks and N-95 respirators are in short supply and should be reserved for health care providers.Can I travel? If you're planning to travel, first check for travel advisories and use appropriate precautions when in public. You also may want to talk with your doctor if you have health conditions that make you more susceptible to respiratory infections and complications.What can I do if I am or may be ill with COVID-19? If you develop symptoms or you've been exposed to the COVID-19 virus, contact your doctor for medical advice. If you need to go to the doctor or hospital, call ahead so health care providers can take steps to ensure that others aren't exposed. Take the following precautions to avoid spreading the COVID-19 virus:Stay home from work, school and public areas, except to get medical care.Avoid public transportation, taxis and ride-sharing if possible.Wear a cloth face mask around other people.Isolate yourself as much as possible from others in your home.Use a separate bedroom and bathroom if possible.Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items.