Facts & Infographics

Cloth masks prevent the spread of coronavirus. We continue to learn about this virus and now know that cloth masks decrease the spread of infectious droplets.

• Do not move the cloth face covering from your mouth and nose after you put it on.
• Do not touch the cloth face covering, or your face, eyes, nose, and mouth while you are wearing it.
• Wash your hands before and after putting on a cloth face covering.
• Wash your cloth face covering often, especially after sneezing or coughing.
• Do not place a cloth face covering on children under 2 years old or someone who has difficulty breathing or who can’t remove it on their own.

How to use a face mask to slow the spread of coronavirus

Read MCW's public statement on masks and COVID-19

Social distancing, also called physical distancing, is an important way to stop coronavirus from spreading.

• Stay at least 6 feet away from people you do not live with.
• Do not shake hands or hug or kiss people you do not live with.

With all the information available about coronavirus (COVID-19), it’s important to separate fact from fiction.

MYTH: Warm weather and heat can kill COVID-19.
FACT: You can get COVID-19 no matter how warm the weather is.

MYTH: I will not be seen in the emergency room.
FACT: If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, call your doctor first.

MYTH: If I take a bath in or drink bleach, household cleaners, or rubbing alcohol, I won’t get COVID-19.
FACT: Disinfectants, bleach, and soap and water are used to clean surfaces and should never be swallowed or injected into the body. These products are extremely toxic. Call 911 if this occurs. While hand sanitizers do have alcohol, they are made to be safe for use on hands.

There are two kinds of tests available for Wisconsin residents for coronavirus (COVID-19):

• Viral tests: This test type checks samples from your respiratory system to identify if you are currently infected. Call your doctor to request a test or call 211 if you do not have a doctor.
• Antibody tests: This type of test is a blood test that identifies if you have already had COVID-19. It can take 1-2 weeks after symptoms occur for your body to make antibodies.

Tips for taking care of your mental health:

• Safely connect with friends and family.
• Take this time to find new opportunities for refection and growth.
• Express your emotions.
• Eat healthy, exercise, and get restful sleep.
• Reach out to a licensed professional.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is different from the families of viruses that cause the common cold or season influenza.

• COVID-19 is 10 times more deadly than the flu.
• Infected individuals may not show symptoms for up to a week.
• The mortality rate of COVID-19 is at least 10 times that of the flu.
• 1 in 6 people with COVID-19 require hospitalization.
• There is no vaccine or approved treatment for COVID-19.