Infections occur mainly through exposure to respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks near someone who doesn’t have COVID-19. While it is not common for COVID-19 to spread from surfaces, these respiratory droplets can land on high-touch surfaces and spread. Other viruses, such as influenza, also can spread in this way. Washing our hands helps prevent viruses (and bacteria) from causing infections.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently sent warning letters to companies selling essential oils that are marketed specifically with misleading claims offering COVID-19 protection. There is no evidence that essential oils are safe or effective for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19.

One should seek emergency medical care immediately for any of the following potential COVID-19 symptoms: trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, bluish lips or face, or any other severe/concerning symptoms.

COVID-19 is primarily transmitted person to person via respiratory droplets. A few studies have isolated viral RNA in both stool and urine of a small number of severely ill patients with COVID-19. It is less clear whether this represents viral shedding or infectious virus in these samples. Proper hand hygiene should be used at all times when changing diapers or any other time that you may come in contact with stool or urine.

Being in well-ventilated spaces, like outdoor areas, as well as physically distancing and wearing face coverings reduces your risk of acquiring COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) indoor spaces – especially crowded areas with less ventilation – carry a higher risk. While indoors, maintaining at least 6 feet of space between people and wearing a face covering are recommended.

The risk of acquiring COVID-19 through playing recreational sports depends on the type of activity. Lower risk activities include performing skill-building drills alone or with members of your household. The risk increases with team-based practice and competition to higher risk activities such as community or regional/national competitions.

It is not recommended to wipe hand sanitizer underneath your nose. Commercially purchased alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be used only as directed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

There is no data to suggest that the prescription medication RhoGAM is safe or effective for treating COVID-19.

It is important to continue taking care of your health and medical conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please do not delay getting emergency care for any health condition. For specific medical concerns, we recommend calling and discussing them with your health care provider. Additionally, one may ask about alternative ways to access medical care during this time, such as telehealth visits.

The COVID-19 pandemic is making the 2020 school year a complicated one for students, parents, and educators. Along with being concerned about the disease itself, parents are worried about their children’s emotional responses to the disruptions it brings. But health care experts say there are ways to help kids face these classroom challenges.

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted plenty of discussion about questionable treatments and “must-try” preventive measures. With so much misinformation and difference of opinion out there, how can you know what to trust? We recommend doing thorough research and following the advice of the experts and your own your health care provider.

No specific diet regimen, like Keto or Whole 30, has been shown to make someone more or less susceptible to getting COVID-19. A well-balanced diet is best to help support one’s immune system.