Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)


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Public health recommendations to protect our communities

We understand these recommendations affect people’s lives. Colorado makes these recommendations in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our partner agencies based on the best and most recent information we have to protect the public. 

For all Coloradans
COVID-19 Reducing Fear and Taking Care of Yourself | Spanish 

Take everyday actions to protect yourself and those you love

  • There are effective ways to reduce the risk to yourself and the people you care about.
    • Frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
    • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, or use your inner elbow or sleeve.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
    • Stay home if you’re sick, and keep your children home if they are sick.
    • Clean surfaces in your home, and personal items such as cell phones, using regular household products.
  • Be calm and prepared.
  • People who are not sick do not need face masks to protect themselves from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. Ill people should wear a mask if they have one -- to protect family members and in any scenario where needed to prevent the spread of germs.

Things to remember

  • It is normal to be scared, distressed or angry when you hear about a disease outbreak, even when you are at a low risk of getting sick. Be careful not to turn fear and anger towards people who have become sick. Ask yourself:
    • Would you think or do the same thing if this was a different infectious disease, like the flu?
    • Does what I’m doing make people safer or does it create more fear or harm?  
  • The risk of COVID-19 is not at all connected with race, ethnicity, or nationality. Blaming others will not help fight the illness. Seeking and sharing accurate information will.
  • Recognize signs of stress in yourself. Identify what you are afraid of. Figure out if what you fear is something that you can address right now. If not, know what activities help you release energy from stress and fear, such as physical activity, listening to music, or talking with someone you trust. Do something that puts you in a positive mood.

Higher-risk people

  • Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, including:
    • Older people (over age 60), especially those over 80.
    • People who have chronic medical conditions like heart, lung, or kidney disease, or diabetes.
    • Older people with chronic medical conditions are at the highest risk.
  • People at higher risk should take action now to be prepared for this virus if there is an outbreak in their community. CDC has the information you need to prepare.
  • Everyone's daily preventive actions are important in reducing spread to people who may experience more severe illness.

CDC recommendations for people at higher risk for COVID-19 complications

Workplaces and businesses

CDC recommendations for businesses and employers

Event and community gatherings

If you are considering postponing or canceling events and gatherings, coordinate with your local public health agency and other community decision-makers to align with community preparedness and mitigation practices.

NOTE: As of March 15, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, recommends that event organizers (groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more. Read more

Schools
Please contact your school or district for information about current or potential school closures.

Travelers

Water and COVID-19

    Water and COVID-19: FAQ