Wash your hands
Thorough washing with soap or washing lotion reliabl
y kills coronaviruses. To protect the skin, employees in hospitals and outpatient departments use hand disinfectants instead. The effect is comparable when used properly. Hands should be washed or disinfected, especially before touching eyes, nose or mouth.
Hand washing: soap up to the wrist for at least 20 seconds
Cough and sneeze properly
The new coronavirus is mainly transmitted by droplets (directly or through the hands).
To protect others: keep your distance when coughing or sneezing, turn away and sneeze into the crook of your elbows (not your hands).
Be careful when touching
Viruses can stick to surfaces that many people touch. For safety, elevator buttons can be pressed with a pen or door handles operated with the elbow.
If skin contact cannot be avoided, it is advisable to wash or disinfect your hands immediately.
Keep distance
Infected people who still feel healthy can also be contagious.
That’s why it’s important to keep your distance, at least 1.5 meters. Better to avoid shaking hands and hugging.
Avoid crowds
Whether concerts, sporting events or trade fairs: it is better to avoid large gatherings of people.
Wear mouth and nose protection
Face masks primarily protect the wearer’s surroundings. Face masks can also give a false sense of security, which can lead to neglect of hand hygiene or keeping your distance.
Occupationally exposed persons should wear special masks (FFP2 or FFP3) due to the German occupational safety regulations. A better protection against virus infections compared to surgical masks (FFP1) has not been scientifically proven. The increased breathing resistance can make wearing FFP2 or FFP3 uncomfortable in the long run.
Am I infected?
What to do if you think you have contracted the new Coronavirus Covid-19 (SARS-CoV-2)?
Stay home first. Keep in mind that you may not be infected – and that you may not be infected in the first place if you visit a doctor’s office or hospital there unnecessarily. Call for advice on what to do.