What is COVID-19?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

How do people become infected?

Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:

• Coughing and sneezing;
• Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands;
• Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands; and
• Rarely, fecal contamination.

How can I avoid infection with COVID-19?

According to the CDC, the immediate health risk of COVID-19 to the American public is LOW. However, you can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses with these actions.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
• 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.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Texas Flu

The flu spreads easily, and there are lots of ways to catch it. The flu is especially hard on older adults and small children, so keep your family protected.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) encourages you to protect yourself and your family by getting the flu shot as soon as possible. DSHS urges everyone six months old and older to get vaccinated every flu season.

In addition to getting a flu shot, you can help prevent the spread of flu by:

• Washing your hands often.
• Covering your coughs and sneezes.
• Staying home from school or work if you are feeling ill.
• Cleaning common surfaces like doorknobs, handles, and keyboards.