For most people, COVID-19 causes a mild illness.
But some people are at a higher risk for getting very sick.
Those include adults age 65 and older and people of any age with a serious health problem such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or immune system problems.
There are a lot of other health conditions and situations that might also increase your risk.
Some people are at a higher risk for getting very sick or dying from COVID-19 because of where they live or work.
People who don't have access to health care are also at a higher risk.
So are people from racial and ethnic minority groups and some people with disabilities.
People who smoke are also at a higher risk.
So if you smoke, it's a good time to think about quitting.
Many people have found ways that helped them successfully quit, including using medicines and finding online support.
And if you're pregnant or were recently pregnant, you are at a higher risk for serious illness if you get COVID-19.
You and your baby are also at a higher risk for pregnancy problems, such as preterm birth.
But no matter what your risk, there are ways to reduce your chances of getting COVID-19.
Here are seven ways to stay safe.
One: If you haven't already, get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.
And stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines.
Some people may need more doses than others.
So talk to your doctor about what's right for you.
Two: Use home testing.
If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or if you have symptoms, take a test.
If you are visiting with people you don't live with, take a test and ask them to take a test before the visit.
Three: Ask the people you live with or who are in close contact with you to stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.
And ask the people you live with to wear a mask in public areas.
This is important even if they're up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.
Four: When you spend time indoors with people who don't live with you, improve the airflow.
If you can, open windows and doors.
Or you can use a fan to blow air away from people and out a window.
Five: When you wear a mask, use one with the best fit, protection, and comfort for you.
A mask can protect you even when others aren't wearing one.
Six: Pay attention to the numbers.
When there are a lot of people with COVID-19 in your community, your risk of getting the virus goes up.
Take extra care—such as by wearing a more protective mask— when the community risk or infection rate is high.
Seven: It's also important to wash your hands often and well, especially after you cough or sneeze.
Use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds.
If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
So now you know that if you—or someone you know —is at a higher risk for a serious illness from COVID-19, there are a lot of things you can do to stay safe.
As the number of people who are infected with COVID-19 changes, information about what you should do may also change.
These changes depend on the level of community risk, such as the number of positive cases and hospitalizations in the area where you live.
For the most current information on how to protect yourself, check the websites for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Canada.ca, and the World Health Organization.
And if you have questions, you can always talk to your doctor.
With care and a little time, you'll get through this.
Be kind to yourself and those around you.
