How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 most commonly spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet, or 2 arm lengths). It spreads through respiratory droplets or small particles, such as those in aerosols, produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes. These particles can be inhaled into the nose, mouth, airways, and lungs and cause infection. This is thought to be the main way the virus spreads. Health experts are still learning more about the spread and severity of illness COVID-19 causes. LEARN MORE >

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1. South Dakota Department of Health FAQ Guide
2. What is COVID-19?
3. How does COVID-19 spread?
4. What are the symptoms?
5. When do I seek medical evaluation and advice?
6. How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
7. How is COVID-19 treated?
8. Why is the mask / face covering mandate in place?
9. Am I required to wear a mask / face covering?
10. Who should get tested for COVID-19?
11. How do I get a test for COVID-19?
12. Should I get tested for COVID-19?
13. What is a quarantine and why is it used?
14. Is quarantine different from isolation?
15. How does self-quarantine work?
16. Can people in self-quarantine still have contact with their household members?
17. What should I do if I get sick or someone in my household gets sick?
18. When should I seek emergency medical attention?
19. What should I do if I have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?
20. How can I prepare for an outbreak?
21. How can I prepare for COVID-19 at work?
22. How can I support local businesses during this time?
23. What mental health resources are available to help cope with COVID-19?