Washington County Public Health Director  Danielle Pettit-Majewski Thursday offered simple steps for protecting yourself and others from COVID-19.

• Best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus which  is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

• Avoid close contact and social distance by putting 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household including in public places like bars and restaurants. 

• If traveling, watch for local virus activity where you are going. Travel considerations follow: 

• Take extra precautions if you are at a higher risk for severe illness.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others, especially when other social distancing  measures are difficult to maintain.

• Wash your hands  often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Cover coughs and sneezes.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces  daily. 

• Monitor your health daily and be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms.   Stay home if you are sick and follow CDC guidelines.

“We encourage all Iowans to celebrate safely and responsibly by following these tried and true public health measures that stop the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses,” said Pettit-Majewski. “We each have a responsibility to keep our friends, families and communities safe. By following these simple measures, we will protect the health of all Iowans and keep our state on the right track.”

For more information on COVID-19 safety, visit www.coronavirus.iowa.gov.