Protect yourself and others from COVID-19

Hygiene

Everyone plays a part in stopping the spread of COVID-19 by having good personal hygiene:

• wash your hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water
• use alcohol-based hand sanitisers when you can’t use soap and water
• avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• clean and disinfect surfaces you use often such as benchtops, desks and doorknobs
• clean and disinfect objects you use often such as mobile phones, keys, wallets and work passes.

If you have cold or flu like symptoms you should get tested for COVID-19, even if your symptoms are mild.

Masks

Wearing a mask can help protect you and those around you. To use a mask properly you should:

• wash or sanitise your hands before putting it on or taking it off
• make sure it covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly under your chin
• avoid touching the front of your mask while wearing or removing it
• keep it in place – don't hang it around your neck or under your nose
• use a new single use mask each time
• wash and dry reusable masks after use and store in a clean dry place.

Wondering if you need to wear a mask, or if you can travel interstate? To avoid waiting on a helpline, check the COVID-19 Restriction Checker for the rules in your area.

Physical distancing

One way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is physical distancing. The more space between you and others, the harder it is for the virus to spread.

Physical distancing means:

• keeping 1.5 metres away from others wherever possible
• avoiding physical greetings such as handshaking, hugs and kisses
• practising extra care on public transport
• avoiding crowds and large gatherings
• practising good hygiene
• getting tested and staying at home if you have any cold or flu symptoms.

Other protections and support

• Being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 reduces your risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death. 
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you experience any cold or flu symptoms.
• Support is available if you need help accessing health care or medicines.
• Keep up to date with the domestic travel, international travel and restrictions advice.
• Find information about COVID-19 in your language.