Can COVID-19 be prevented?

The best way to prevent infection is to prevent exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of any respiratory viruses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash can and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others and are unable to social distance.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Get a flu shot for yourself and your family members. This will not prevent COVID-19 but it will prevent you from getting flu, keeping you healthy and out of the hospital.

You may additionally visit the CDC COVID-19 Vaccination page to learn more about current vaccine options and resources.

Show All Answers

1. Is there a travel advisory for New York State?
2. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
3. Can I get tested for COVID-19?
4. Can COVID-19 be prevented?
5. Who is at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19?
6. Can COVID-19 be treated?
7. Can someone who has had COVID-19 spread the illness to others?
8. What is the difference between quarantine and isolation?
9. What is antibody/serology testing, and can I be tested using this method?
10. Can recovered COVID-19 patients donate plasma?
11. What is the NY State guidance for cloth face coverings?
12. What is the NY State Department of Health (NYSDOH) guidance for face coverings in the workplace?
13. What cleaning products should I use to protect against COVID-19?
14. Should I use soap and water or a hand sanitizer to protect against COVID-19?
15. What temperature kills the virus that causes COVID-19?
16. Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be spread through food, including restaurant take out, refrigerated or frozen packaged food?