Monitor your symptoms
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you must immediately self-isolate and perform a rapid test.
If you decide not to perform a COVID-19 rapid test or if you don’t have access to one, you must self-isolate at home.
Follow the self-isolation instructions
You must self-isolate if you are in one of the following situations:
- You have COVID-19.
- You are not vaccinated, have never had COVID-19 and you have been in contact with a person who has COVID-19 and lives in your household or is a sexual partner.
For further details, see the Self-isolation instructions.
Protect the most vulnerable
If you are sick or have symptoms, avoid contact with other people, particularly the most vulnerable, including those aged 70 and older, those with a weakened immune system and those suffering from a chronic illness.
Get vaccinated
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others. When you are vaccinated against COVID-19, your body prepares its defences against the virus.
See the Get vaccinated against COVID-19 page to find out how to get vaccinated.
Cover your face
Wearing a mask or a face covering lowers the risk of infection. It is mandatory for people aged 10 years and older in most facilities where medical care is provided.
For further details, consult Wearing a mask or a face covering in public settings in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you have COVID-19, you must wear a mask during any social interaction for 10 days. People who live in your household should also wear a mask during any social interaction for 10 days.
Wearing a mask is recommended in the presence of vulnerable or immunosuppressed people, and when it is difficult to keep your distance from others.
Cough into your elbow
When you cough or sneeze:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a paper tissue or your arm to reduce the spread of germs.
- If you use a paper tissue, throw it out as soon as possible and wash your hands afterward.
Wash your hands
Wash your hands often with warm running water and soap for at least 20 seconds, especially when you come in from outside. Disinfect your hands with an alcohol-based solution if you do not have access to soap and water.
Consult the hand washing techniques as needed.
Keep your distance
Maintain a distance of at least 1 metre (about 3 feet) from other people who don’t live in your household. If you can’t keep your distance, wear a mask or a face covering.
Avoid direct contact for greetings, such as handshakes, and opt for alternative practises.
Apply recognized hygiene measures
Get in the habit of regularly cleaning your environment and the sanitary appliances that you use. For example, clean your counters and other frequently touched surfaces. Also, clean toilets and sinks to keep them clean.
Cleaning is very effective in eliminating the virus, which can survive on hard surfaces. You can clean these surfaces using soap and water or household detergents.
