Prevention

As your family and younger children spend more time around groups of people, it’s helpful to have a plan for different gatherings or locations. This can help children know what to expect.

The County of Monterey Health Department urges all residents to practice prevention strategies during fall and winter virus season.  The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads primarily through the air.  Vaccinations including boosters are very important to keep our communities safe.  To keep yourself, your family, your friends and neighbors, and our broader community healthy, follow these everyday, sensible steps including:

1. Get vaccinated. All federally approved vaccines work well and will help keep you and your family safe. Find a vaccination clinic near you at vaccines.gov or myturn.ca.gov.
   
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
3. Go outdoors. Outdoor activities are safer than indoor ones. If gathering indoors, open windows to increase circulation of fresh air.
4. Wear a face covering. Consistent use of face coverings while in public indoor settings is very effective at preventing spread of COVID-19 and other winter respiratory viruses.
5. Avoid crowds. The fewer people you interact with, the small your chance is of becoming exposed.
6. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
7. Consider delaying travel when COVID-19 transmission is high. Visit the CDC's traveler alert website for information about geographic areas with COVID-19 outbreaks.
8. Get tested if you have been around someone who is sick, even if you have been vaccinated.  Consider testing before and after traveling or gathering.