As a family, you can plan and make decisions now that will protect you and your family during a COVID-19 outbreak.Stay informed and in touchWatch for symptoms
- Get up-to-date information about local COVID-19 activity from public health officials.
- Ask your neighbors what their plan includes.
- Create a list of local organizations you and your household can contact in case you need access to information, healthcare services, support, and resources.
- Create an emergency contact list including family, friends, neighbors, carpool drivers, healthcare providers, teachers, employers, the local public health department, and other community resources.
- Consider members of the household that may be at greater risk such as older adults and people with severe chronic illnesses.
- Choose a room in your house that can be used to separate sick household members from others.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- 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.
- Be prepared if your child’s school or childcare facility is temporarily dismissed or for potential changes at your workplace.
Related: How to Protect Yourself
- Stay home and speak to your healthcare provider if you develop any of these symptoms:
- Fever or
- Cough or
- Shortness of breath
- If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.
- Emergency warning signs include*:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
- Keep away from others who are sick.
- Limit close contact with others as much as possible (about 6 feet).
- Continue to practice everyday preventive actions.
- Keep the ill person in a separate room from others in the household.
- If caring for a sick household member, follow recommended precautions and monitor your own health.
- Keep surfaces disinfected.
- Avoid sharing personal items.
- If you become sick, stay in contact with others by phone or email.
- Stay informed about the local outbreak situation.
- Notify your work if your schedule needs to change.
- Take care of the emotional health of your household members, including yourself.
- Consider staying at home and away from crowds.
- Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications and supplies in case you need to stay home.
- When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick and limit close contact with others.
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Notify your child’s school if your child becomes sick with COVID-19.
- Keep track of school dismissals in your community.
- Discourage children and teens from gathering in other public places.
- CDC Link