How can you avoid getting COVID-19 and the flu?

Get the COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccines when they're available to you. You can also take the same steps to reduce your risk of infection from the viruses that cause COVID-19, the flu and other respiratory infections by following several standard precautions. In fact, some research has found that following these measures, such as social distancing and wearing a face mask, may have helped shorten the length of the flu season and decreased the number of people affected in the 2019-2020 flu season.

If you haven't had the COVID-19 vaccine, you can take many steps to reduce your risk of infection. Precautions may include:

• Avoiding large events and mass gatherings
• Avoiding close contact (within 6 feet, or 2 meters) with anyone outside your household, especially if you have a higher risk of serious illness
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
• Wearing a face mask when you're in indoor public spaces and outdoors where there is a high risk of COVID-19 transmission, such as at a crowded event or large gathering. Further COVID-19 mask guidance differs depending on whether you are fully vaccinated or unvaccinated.
• Covering your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, electronics and counters, daily

Taking these prevention measures can help you stay healthy and reduce your risk of becoming ill with COVID-19 or the flu.