If you've been exposed to COVID-19—or have symptoms that could be COVID-19—get a test.
And you may need to be tested more than once.
If your test is positive, talk to your doctor as soon as you can.
Your doctor may have you take medicine to help prevent serious illness.
Now, it might help to know that most people recover from COVID-19.
But it can take time.
During that time, there's a lot you can do to protect others, including your family, friends, and community.
This is especially important for people who are at risk of getting really sick with COVID-19, such as people who are older or who have health problems.
Here's what you can do to take care of yourself and help lower the risk of spreading the virus.
Let people you've been close to know that they may have been exposed to COVID-19.
Stay home.
Don't go to school, work, or public areas.
And if you can, avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
And don't travel until your doctor says it's okay.
In fact, anytime you're around other people, wear a mask with the best fit, protection, and comfort for you.
Masks can help stop the virus from spreading.
If you need medical care, call your doctor's office first so they know you're coming.
At home and whenever you're around others, try to limit close contact with people and your pets.
Try to stay at least 6 feet, or about 2 meters, from others.
That means staying in a separate bedroom and using a separate bathroom, if possible.
And if you can, improve the airflow indoors by opening windows and doors to the outside.
Or you can use a fan to blow air away from people and out a window.
When you cough or sneeze, use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose.
Then throw the tissue in the trash right away.
Wash your hands often, but especially after you cough or sneeze.
Use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds.
If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Don't share personal household items.
You can assign yourself your own set of items, including bedding, towels, cups and glasses, and eating utensils.
And it's also a good idea to clean and disinfect surfaces, especially in shared spaces.
Take care of yourself.
Get extra rest.
Drink plenty of fluids.
And if you need to relieve a fever and body aches, take over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help you feel better.
Read and follow all instructions on the label.
Talk with your doctor or other health professional about when it will be safe for you to leave isolation.
And call your doctor if your symptoms get worse or you're not getting better as expected.
For the most current information on how to protect yourself, check the websites for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Canada.ca, and the World Health Organization.
And if you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.
With care and a little time, you'll get through this.
Be kind to yourself and those around you.
