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Coronavirus preparations: How to keep yourself healthy

Here are some practical ways to make sure you and your family can stay healthy during coronavirus [COVID-19].

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] and Sacramento County health officials still say the risk of contracting the coronavirus [COVID-19] is still low, that doesn't mean one should not be prepared. 

The CDC and medical professionals have tips that can help people prevent the spread of most viruses, including coronavirus.

Wash your hands

Like with all illnesses, it is important to remember to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, the CDC recommends.

The CDC's website says if people cannot wash their hands, then people can, and should, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that has 60% to 95% alcohol. Make sure to keep rubbing your hands until they are dry.

Also, the CDC recommends avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Don't wear a mask

Unless you are sick, doctors do not suggest wearing a mask. Masks should be worn by people who are ill and medical professionals.

Dr. Dean Blumberg with UC Davis Health said people "have to wear them almost constantly," if they want to prevent contracting a virus.

It is better to wear a mask if you are sick already and are trying to prevent spreading your illness to others, according to the CDC.

RELATED: Can wearing a face mask protect you from the new coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Stay home if feeling sick

The CDC recommends people stay home if they are feeling sick.

"Do not go to work, school, or public areas," the CDC says on their website. "Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis."

If you have other people or animals in your home, the CDC suggests isolating yourself away from them and using separate bathrooms, if possible. Should a person need to care for their pet, the CDC recommends washing hands, limiting contact with the pet and wearing a mask.

RELATED: COVID-19: What you need to know about this coronavirus outbreak

Clean commonly used surfaces

Surfaces and items that are touched often should be cleaned frequently according to the CDC.

Some of the things that should be cleaned include:

  • counters
  • tabletops
  • doorknobs
  • bathroom fixtures
  • toilets
  • phones and cell phones
  • keyboards
  • tablets
  • bedside tables

Common household cleaning sprays or wipes, used in accordance with the label's instruction, should be safe and effective for cleaning the home and the items in it according to the CDC. 

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