Transmission/Precautions

COVID-19 Transmission

The most important route of transmission of COVID-19 is likely close contact (six feet or less) with people who are ill, who spread respiratory droplets when they cough or sneeze. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about six feet).

It may be possible for someone to be infected by touching an object or surface contaminated by COVID-19 virus and then touching their own mouth, nose, or potentially their eyes. The risk of spread from asymptomatic people and from touching surfaces is much lower than droplet spread from people who are ill.

Precautionary Measures

To prevent the spread of COVID-19:

  • Avoid contact with people who are ill.
  • Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Use the alcohol-based hand sanitizer that have been provided in many campus locales to augment hand washing.
  • After each use, wipe down tools, remote controls, and other shared objects. Routinely clean and disinfect wallets, purses, backpacks, keys, keyboards and phones. EHS has published guidelines on Cleaning Computers and Electronics, and Cleaning and Disinfection of Public Areas, Offices and Workplaces. These guidelines refer to cleaners approved for COVID-19 decontamination by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  • Gloves may be appropriate if work involves handling shared objects. Contact your EHS Safety Advisor for advice on glove selection and use.
  • Stay home if you are ill—do not go to work or classes.
  • Practice social distancing.
  • When possible, discourage individuals from sharing desks, offices, or other tools and equipment.
  • To avoid potential cross-contamination, use of shared food refrigerators in break rooms is discouraged.