COVID-19 and How to Help Stop Its Spread

Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19

What type of virus is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a coronavirus. Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses and one of the easiest types of viruses to kill with the right disinfectant products. Another example of an enveloped virus is Influenza A.

There are also large and small non-enveloped viruses, such as Rotavirus, Rhinovirus and Norovirus, which are more difficult to kill.

How can I help stop the spread of COVID-19?

There are a number of ways you can help stop the spread of COVID-19. These include regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently used surfaces with antimicrobials, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands regularly and the right way with soap and water.

What are some products that can help to keep you safe?

The Center for Biocide Chemistries has developed a list of more than 400 products that are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for helping to kill viruses like COVID-19.

How do you disinfect surfaces for the coronavirus disease?

There is a difference between cleaning and disinfecting. To disinfect the frequently used surfaces of your home, you should first clean the surfaces to remove dirt and impurities. Cleaning the surfaces does not kill germs. The next step after cleaning is to disinfect by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. After you clean the surface, you should disinfect it by using antimicrobials directly on the surface of the items you cleaned.

What should I look for in disinfectant products?

Check the label of the product to see that it is an EPA-registered product and follow the instructions for using the product.

What are some additional steps you can take to keep healthy?

Wash your hands often, including after you sneeze, cough or use the restroom, and before you prepare food and eat.

Practice social distancing by avoiding large gatherings and keeping a distance of at least 6 feet from others. One of the best options to help protect against catching COVID-19 is to stay home and try to ensure your home is clean and disinfected.

If you have to leave your home to travel or shop for necessities, be sure to disinfect seats, armrest, shopping carts and other items you will need touch. If you have to leave your home to work in an office, be sure to disinfect keyboards, desks and frequently used office equipment.

Where can I stay updated on COVID-19?

Stay informed about COVID-19 by visiting the CDC’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) website. The website is a valuable resource for information about COVID-19 symptoms, information for older adults and those with medical conditions, community resources and resources for healthcare professionals.