COVID-19 virus, or coronavirus, brought loads of anxiety, fear, illness and death upon the world. As of Oct. 28, 2020, there are a total of 8,779,653 COVID-19 cases and 226,723 deaths related to COVID-19 in the United States.

Since February, COVID-19 has become a prominent part of the lives of all citizens of the world. Americans were all asked to change their daily lives in an effort to stop its spread. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) stated that the virus can stay in the air for up to three hours and remain on plastic/steel surfaces for up to three days. Over 115,000 Missourians were infected with the virus and, due to its ability to be easily spread, the number of cases continue to rise each day.

While talk of a COVID-19 vaccine is also spreading, it is still everyone’s job to keep both themselves and others safe. People are being encouraged to follow these safety precautions and guidelines.:

1. Wear a mask – This guideline is very important as it is seen everywhere in public and online. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 95% of small particles are blocked from spread by a mask.

2. Keep six feet away – People in public areas must keep a 6-foot distance from each other. Many companies and businesses have made this easier with floor directions and signs.

3. Quarantine – Even though the public is fully functioning and open now, people are all still asked to stay home as much as possible, and quarantine if there has been possible COVID exposure. Going out instead of staying in increases people’s chance of catching the virus.

4. Always cover your mouth – This is a rule that is supposed to be learned as children, but people still need reminders. When sneezing or coughing, people can help others be safe by covering their mouth to prevent spreading germs.

5. Check Your Temperature – When going out in public or going to work, remember to do a quick temperature check for safe measures. While there are people who have COVID and are asymptomatic (showing no symptoms), it is still important for everyone to check their temperature before and after going out.

6.Wash Your Hands Often – Due to the easy spread of germs, it is best for everyone to wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer (60% alcohol or higher) if soap and water are unavailable.