Preventing COVID-19

This is a great time to teach our youth about germs! 

In this video, our Executive Director and co-founder of tippytap.org asks his kids to talk about handwashing. Handwashing with soap can save millions of lives every year, and now COVID-19 has brought heightened awareness to the power of handwashing. Tippytap.org was started with the intent to bring awareness to and promote handwashing.

Preventing COVID-19

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. This may happen through person to person contact, between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet), and inhalation of infected respiratory droplets (such as through a sneeze or cough). Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Clean your hands often

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Take steps to protect others

1. Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
2. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash and immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
3. Wear a facemask when in public.
4. Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

Last updated September 25, 2023