Understanding how the COVID-19 virus is spread is important. It will help you to assess your risk and take steps to protect yourself in different situations.
The virus spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets and tiny particles that are released into the air from the mouth and nose of a person who has COVID-19. These droplets/particles are then breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, nose, or mouth. A person’s risk of getting infected increases the closer they are to someone infected with COVID-19. This is especially true if the infected person is speaking, singing, coughing, shouting, sneezing, or breathing heavily. Their risk is also higher if they are in an enclosed space with poor air flow. This is because the tiny particles that have the virus can concentrate and spread in the air. They can even stay floating in the air for several hours after an infected person has left the room if there is poor air flow.
This is why masks are important. They lower the number of respiratory droplets people release into the air AND also the number that they breathe in. A well-fitting N95, KN95, and KF94 respirator should block at least 94% of these particles.
It is also possible, but less common, for the COVID virus to spread by touching a surface with droplets on it and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. This is another reason why it is important to wash your hands regularly.
There are certain places where COVID-19 spreads more easily
Knowing the level of spread in your area can help you decide what protective measures to take. Everyone needs to take extra precautions when the risk is high. When the risk is low, you can make decisions based on personal preference and comfort level. You should also consider your own level of risk and the level of risk to others in your household or workplace. Consider the following:
To learn about the current situation in LA County, see COVID-19 community risk level.
Vaccination
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from getting very sick from COVID-19, ending up in the hospital, or dying. It also lowers your risk of getting long COVID. You need to get all recommended doses (including an updated booster) to get the best protection.
Some people are more likely to get very sick if they get COVID-19. This includes people who are not vaccinated, older, or have certain medical conditions. If you are higher risk, you and the people you spend time with should be extra careful. Follow the steps listed above to reduce your risk and learn about medicines to prevent or treat infection.
Remember to:
If you get COVID-19, there are medicines that you can take that will help keep you from getting very sick. They may also help you test negative sooner and may lower the risk of long COVID. These medicines must be started within the first few days of symptoms to be effective (within 5 days for the oral medicines and within 7 days for the intravenous treatment). Treatment is free. Many adults and some children qualify for treatment. See ph.lacounty.gov/covidmedicines for more information.
Be prepared and have a plan for getting COVID-19 treatment:
See ph.lacounty.gov/covidmedicines for more information.
TIP! Make a list of all the medicines you are taking, including over the counter medicines and supplements. The doctor will need to know what medicines you are taking before they can prescribe treatment. They may tell you to stop or lower the dose of your regular medicines while you take your COVID treatment.