THIS IS AN UPDATED PRESS RELEASE ON THIS SUBJECT--THE NEW TEXT ON COVID SPREAD IS BELOW THE PRESS RELEASE CDC updates COVID-19 transmission webpage to clarify information about types of spreadMedia Statement
For Immediate Release: Friday, May 22, 2020
Contact: Media Relations
(404) 639-3286
CDC actively reviews our website to make sure the content is accessible and clear for all types of audiences. As a result of one such review, edits were made to the organization of the COVID-19 transmission page, including adding a headline in an attempt to clarify other types of spread beyond person to person. This change was intended to make it easier to read, and was not a result of any new science.
After media reports appeared that suggested a change in CDC’s view on transmissibility, it became clear that these edits were confusing. Therefore, we have once again edited the page to provide clarity.The primary and most important mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through close contact from person-to-person. Based on data from lab studies on COVID-19 and what we know about similar respiratory diseases, it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this isn’t thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
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Page last reviewed: May 23, 2020
Content source:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// BELOW YOU WILL FIND THE UPDATED COVID-19 SPREAD INFORMATION///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////How COVID-19 SpreadsCOVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through close contact from person-to-person. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. We are still learning about how the virus spreads and the severity of illness it causes.
Person-to-Person SpreadThe virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.* Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
* Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
* These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
* COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.
The Virus Spreads Easily Between PeopleHow easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious, like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, which means it goes from person-to-person without stopping.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading very easily and sustainably between people. Information from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic suggest that this virus is spreading more efficiently than influenza, but not as efficiently as measles, which is highly contagious.
The Virus May be Spread in Other WaysIt may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by
touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about how this virus spreads.
Spread Between Animals and People* At this time, the risk of COVID-19 spreading
from animals to people is considered to be low. Learn about COVID-19 and pets and
other animals.
COVID-19 and pets and other animals Link https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/animals/pets-other-animals.html* It appears that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread
from people to animals in some situations. CDC is aware of a small
number of pets worldwide, including cats and dogs, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close
contact with people with COVID-19. Learn what you should do if you have pets.
If you have pets Link https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/pets.htmlProtect Yourself and OthersThe best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. You can take steps to slow the spread.
* Maintain good social distance (about 6 feet). This is very important in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html* Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least
60% alcohol.
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html* Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.htmlLearn more about what you can do to protect yourself and others.https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.htmlMore InformationASL Video Series: How does COVID-19 Spread?
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Page last reviewed: May 22, 2020
Content source:
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Division of Viral Diseases
