The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to not get it in the first place. There are many steps you can take to avoid catching Coronavirus as well as protecting others around you. Thankfully COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed across the globe but the rollout will take time. Here we look at what you can do to minimize your risk of contracting COVID-19 as well as tips to stay protected during the pandemic:

Wash your hands regularly

• It is recommended that we wash our hands for a minimum of 20 seconds.
• Use soap and warm water. Alternatively use hand sanitizer.
• Be sure to scrub in between your fingers and the backs of your hands.
• Scrub your fingers nails into your palms to remove any contaminated particles. 
• Wash your hands before consuming food, after being in a public space or being near children, the elderly, the sick and your pets. 
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes with unwashed hands.
• With the increase in online shopping, make sure you wash your hands after receiving and handling your mail.

Cough and sneeze into your elbow and not your hands

• Use a tissue to catch a cough or a sneeze as drops of salvia or mucus can spread coronavirus.
• If you don’t have a tissue use the inside of your elbow.
• Throw all tissues away immediately.
• Wash your hands or sanitize them.

Wear a mask

• When away from your home wear a mask at all times, especially indoors.
• The mask should cover your nose and mouth and be fitted securely. 
• Wear a mask at home if you are within 6 feet of someone you don’t normally interact with, such as a builder or contractor. 

Keep your distance

• It is recommended that you minimize the time you spend in public around other people.
• If you do need to venture out, maintain a distance of 6 feet from others.
• Wear a mask in public and be sure to wash your hands frequently.

Clean and disinfect 

• Regularly clean your house and your car as COVID-19 can live on surfaces for up to 72 hours.
• Wash the surface with soap and water before disinfecting to be certain any traces of the virus are eliminated. 

Look after yourself

• The CDC reported in September 2020 that 40% of Americans have avoided or delayed non-Coronavirus medical care due to fears surrounding COVID-19. This has caused alarm among health care professionals as delaying medical care can lead to far graver implications further down the line.
• If you have noticed a change in your physical or mental health, it is best to seek medical attention even during the pandemic. 
• Stay active and maintain a routine, learn a new skill or start a new hobby. Keeping busy can help reduce feelings of anxiety related to the pandemic. 

Avoid scams

• The FBI has reported a rise in scams during the pandemic, including criminals posing as government officials, work-from-home fraud, and so-called miracle cures. 
• Never provide personal details if you are asked for them by an unsolicited email, phone call or text message. 
• Only receive medical treatment from your doctors.

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Countries around the world are beginning to vaccinate their citizens against Coronavirus in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We believe letting people know you’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine is an important step in overcoming the virus. Once you have the vaccine you can buy your wristband here and let the world know you’re helping defeat COVID-19.