COVID-19 is highly contagious and continues to spread around the United States and the globe. Because it is a new disease in humans, our immune systems had not previously developed any defenses against it. The availability of vaccines that protect against COVID-19 has changed that.
There are currently four vaccines available in the U.S. to help prevent coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Vaccines help protect us by providing immunity without having to get sick. Medical experts around the globe continue actively researching potential vaccinations that may lessen or prevent illness from COVID-19. The National Institutes of Health provides the public with up-to-date information on several vaccines trials that have launched.
Understanding how COVID-19 spreads
COVID-19 is an infectious respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Like many other respiratory viruses, coronavirus spreads quickly through respiratory droplets when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. The SARS-CoV-2 virus spreads primarily from person-to-person contact, but can also spread by airborne transmission and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Individuals who are infected but not showing symptoms may still spread COVID-19 to others.
Transmission is more likely to occur in enclosed, indoor spaces with poor ventilation and when the infected person was breathing heavily, such as singing or exercising. Being in crowded, indoor restaurants, bars, fitness centers or movie theaters put you at higher risk for COVID-19.
Steps to protect yourself from infection
Mask Types
Cloth
- Multiple layers of breathable fabric
- Wash daily
- Some protection
Surgical
- Multiple layers of non-woven fabric
- One-time use
- More protection
KN95
- Filtration is different depending on standards
- Limited reuse
- More protection
N95
- NIOSH approved
- Limited reuse
- Highest protection
Masks should completely cover your nose and mouth and should fit snugly against your face without gaps. A nose wire is recommended to prevent air from escaping from the top of the mask.
Ways to have extra protection by getting a better fit with cloth and surgical masks:
- Wear two masks (if you do this, wear your surgical mask directly over your mouth and nose and place your cloth make over top).
- Knot and tuck ear loops where they are connected to the edge of the mask.
- Use masks that attach behind the neck using an elastic tie or band instead of ear loops.
You can find a free N95 mask using CDC’s Find Free Masks tool.
Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.
Page last updated: May 4, 2023