Protests and calls for police reform may have made many of us think less about the Coronavirus. 

But it’s still here – lurking silently around us. 

Over the last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its language on how the Coronavirus spreads. 

Their main message? Worry less about getting it from surfaces. And more about getting it from another person. 

Focus on getting it from a person, not a doorknob

The CDC now believes that the virus is spread when a person with COVID-19 passes it to a person without it.

The virus is usually transmitted when the sick person sneezes or coughs on someone else.

The sick person may not realize they have the Coronavirus. 

Many people do not show symptoms, yet still, have this virus.  They are referred to as asymptomatic. 

This is why experts recommended that everyone stays six feet away from each other. 

The virus likely can’t travel much further on its own. 

It’s not just about coughing and sneezing though 

The virus can also be spread simply when an infected person speaks or breathes. 

This is why some experts stress that masks should be worn at all times.  

How contagious is Coronavirus?

COVID-19 is extremely contagious and has exhibited high rates of contraction. 

Currently, 1.75 million confirmed cases, and more than 100, 300 deaths, have been attributed to the virus. 

What other precautions should I take?

While wearing a mask and maintaining a safe distance are important, there are other precautions that can also help limit your exposure to the virus. 

Experts suggest:

• Wearing gloves in places like stores
• Using disinfectant on your hands when in public places
• Not touching things you don’t plan on buying

So can I stop cleaning my home so much?

Keep up your cleaning routine, even though the CDC isn’t sooooo worried about the virus spreading through surfaces. 

When cleaning, wash your hands regularly.

When cleaning surfaces, first clean with soap and water to get the first layer of dirt off. Then use disinfectant. 

Focus your cleaning efforts on the things you and others touch the most, i.e. tables, doors, handles, toilets, sinks, shared computers and remote controls.

Most likely, you touch your phone the most. Use electronic disinfectant wipes on it several times per day. 

Can my pet get the Coronavirus? 

In a rare case. Animals have gotten it, although it’s very rare. 

If you know you are sick, try to stay away from your house pet. 

This article is intended to convey generally useful information only and does not constitute legal advice. Any opinions expressed are solely those of the author, not LawChamps.