What to do after exposure to COVID-19
COVID-19 exposure; COVID-19 exposure - what to do
Using face masks in public settings helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 spreads to people within close contact via small droplets sprayed into the air by someone with the disease who coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes. Wearing face masks or cloth face coverings helps reduce the spray of respiratory droplets from the nose and mouth. Wearing a face mask may also protect you from infection.
Wearing face masks or cloth face coverings helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. For masks to work, they have to be worn properly. Choose a mask with two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric that completely covers your mouth and nose and fits snugly against the sides of your face, leaving no gaps. Do not wear a mask that is too loose on the sides. Do not pull the mask low on your nose, below your nose, or below your mouth or chin. Do not leave your chin or your mouth exposed or dangle the mask from one ear. Do not wear the mask in any other way that does not entirely cover your mouth and nose. Wash your hands before and after wearing the mask and use only the loops of the mask to put it on and take it off. Do not touch the front of the mask while wearing it. If you use a cloth mask, wash it and dry it daily and keep it in a clean, dry place.
Take Precautions Right Away
You can spread COVID-19 before you show symptoms. Some people with the illness never have symptoms, but can still spread the disease. However, there are ways to protect yourself and others from getting COVID-19. These include wearing a well-fitting face mask, frequent hand washing, and maintaining a 6 foot (2 meter) distance from others, especially when indoors.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Being vaccinated helps protect you from getting and spreading COVID-19. Being vaccinated can also help protect you from serious illness if you do get the virus.
If you do get COVID-19, learn what to do when you are sick.
When to Call the Doctor
You should contact your health care provider:
- If you have symptoms and think you may have been exposed to COVID-19
- If you have COVID-19 and your symptoms are getting worse
Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or inability to wake up
- Gray, blue, or pale lips or face
- Any other symptoms that are severe or concern you
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Respiratory illnesses: respiratory virus guidance.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. COVID-19: about COVID- 19.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 1/1/2025
Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
