With new cases appearing everyday in the United States and around the world, COVID-19 was categorized as a pandemic on March 11. With an influx of concern in the public, here are a few ways to avoid the spread of COVID-19.

1. Avoid touching your face

This is especially important if you have unwashed hands as touching a surface that may have the virus on it and then your face is a sure way to continue spreading COVID-19.

2. Stay home or wear a face mask if you are sick

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends individuals either stay home or wear protective gear such as a face mask in order to prevent the virus from spreading through a cough or sneeze.

3. Clean frequently touched surfaces often

The CDC recommends cleaning these surfaces with diluted household bleach, alcohol or other household disinfectants registered with the Environmental Protection Agency. Cleaning these surfaces frequently prevents the spread of the virus on the basis of surface to face.

4. Do not attend large gatherings

St. Louis County declared a State of Emergency on March 13, banning public gatherings of more than 250 people as the more distance between people there is, the less likely the virus can spread to a large number of individuals at once.

5. Stay calm and up to date with the news

Every hour things are changing, so be sure to stay up to date on business closures in the local community as well as statements released by both local and national government offices.