Lauren Krouse

Telling the difference between a cold and sinus infection can be difficult, confirms , an ear, nose, and throat specialist and assistant professor of otolaryngology at Rush Medical College in Chicago, Illinois.

Chances are, if youve only had a day or two of symptoms, you have a cold. But pain or congestion on one side of your face (as opposed to both) and bad breath for over a week could indicate that youve entered territory, she says. But it gets a littttle more complicated.

A sinus infection, a.k.a. , simply means that your sinuses (the hollow spaces surrounding your nose that produce mucus) are inflamed. Often, this is thanks to an infection from bacteria or fungus, but sometimes a respiratory virus that strikes your nose and throatlike the may lead to a sinus infection, too.

So, are you dealing with yet another cold or do you have a ? Read on to learn about the symptoms of each, plus how to deal no matter whats making you miserable.

<h1> First: What are the symptoms of a sinus infection versus a cold? </h1>

The symptoms of a sinus infection and a cold are super similar, but sinus infections tend to last longer and get a little nastier.

Potential symptoms of a sinus infection include:

<ul><li> Stuffy nose or congestion </li><li> Thick white, yellow, or green mucus </li><li> Drainage down the back of your throat </li><li> Pressure or pain around your nose, cheeks, eyes, forehead, or teeth </li><li> Decreased sense of taste and smell </li><li> Bad breath </li><li> Weakness and fatigue </li><li> Cough </li><li> Fever </li></ul>

If youre feeling sick but youre not quite at *that* level yet, you might just have a cold (which is, of course, still not ideal!). Here are a few common symptoms of a cold:

<ul><li> Stuffy nose or congestion </li><li> Runny nose </li><li> Scratchy throat </li><li> Sneezing </li></ul>

Depending on the virus youre dealing with, you might also experience:

<ul><li> A decrease in appetite </li><li> Drainage down the back of your throat </li><li> Headache </li><li> Muscle aches </li><li> Weakness and fatigue </li><li> Sore throat </li><li> Cough </li><li> A low-grade fever </li></ul>

As you can see, theres quite a lot of overlap between the symptoms of a sinus infection and cold. To add to the confusion: If you thought you had a cold but it just wont go away or has become worse over the past week or so, that could mean you have in fact developed a sinus infection.

Typically, doctors think of the seven to 10 day mark as their cut-off point for when its probably just a cold becomes lets schedule an appointment to get you checked out, says Dr. Husain.

<h1> How do you treat a sinus infection? </h1>

Most sinus infections will clear up without antibiotics, per the . If this is your case, self-care and have you covered: Stay hydrated to thin out your mucus, inhale steam out of a mug or in the shower a couple times a day, and press a warm, moist washcloth or heating pad to your face to ease any facial pain.

like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) can also help you ride out the most uncomfortable days of a sinus infection, says Dr. Husain.

However, if your doctor sees pus-like drainage coming out of your sinuses (ugh), that usually means you have a <a href="https://acaai.org/allergies/types/sinus-infection" id="0d7378d0-85ed-3547-aec8-fa1292ed3339"> bacterial sinus infection </a> . That requires a course of antibiotics and a nasal rinse and decongestant, which can help mucus clear out of your sinuses and dial down the swelling in your nasal passages, says Dr. Husain.

is pretty similar to what youd do for a sinus infection. Drink up, get some rest, and if you have a headache or muscle aches, you can take OTC pain medications according to the label instructions, says Dr. Husain.

If youre really stuffed up, consider also snagging a nasal steroid spray like Flonase (fluticasone), Nasacort Allergy (triamcinolone acetonide), or Rhinocort (budesonide) along with a nasal saline rinse to thin and loosen up mucus so its easier to blow out of your system.

<h1> When should I see a doctor? </h1>

If youre still feeling crappy (or even worse) after seven to 10 days, call a doctor to get checked out. Ultimately, the best way to tell the difference between a sinus infection and the common cold is to have a nasal endoscopy, which is where your doctor peers into your nose and sinuses with a thin, flexible tool to see whats going on in there, says Dr. Husain.

In the meantime, if you begin to have like trouble breathing, your fever goes over 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit or lasts five days or more, or your sore throat, headache, or sinus pain becomes just about the *only* thing that you can think about, seek medical attention ASAP.

Otherwise? Snuggle up with a and catch up on your shows or zzzs while your body does its thing.

How To Tell If You Have A Sinus Infection Or Cold

When youre stuffed up beyond the usual  , one question tends to pop up a lot: Am I dealing with a cold or a full-blown sinus infection? Since both tend to lead to the same cluster of not-fun symptomslike constant drainage, a stuffed-up nose, and that familiar sick-and-tired feelingtheyre easy to get confused.

Is It A Sinus Infection Or A Cold? How To Tell The Difference, According To A Doctor

In fact, crappy symptoms like , bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation can be pretty common during that time of the month, says , an ob-gyn at the . Nearly three-quarters of menstruating women say they have GI issues before their period, and another two-thirds get them during their period, per a . The most common complaints: abdominal pain and diarrhea.

So, why must the period fairy bless you with period diarrhea on top of ? Read on for the answer, plus how to make period poops and gas a lot more bearable.

<h1> Tell me: Why do some people get diarrhea before or during their period? </h1>

While more studies are needed to determine *exactly* why women get diarrhea before and during their period, research suggests that hormone-like substances called prostaglandins and the sex hormone progesterone could be to blame, says Dr. Greves.

Heres what happens: A few days before your , the lining of your uterus begins to break down and releases prostaglandins which cue the smooth muscles in your uterus to contract. If you have an excess of prostaglandins, though, your uterus could really start squeezing (the result: ). If that Contract, now! message spreads even further, your intestines might start to wobble, too. When that happens, whats inside doesnt have much of a chance to harden, which might be why you get period diarrhea.

Towards the end of your cycle (a.k.a. the luteal phase, when the lining of your uterus thickens up again), your <a href="https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/progesterone" id="fea2869a-268c-3fe1-a368-bc25f241f9d8"> progesterone levels go up </a> . More progesterone stops all of those contractions and tells your bowels to slow downwhich is where period-induced constipation can come in (yay!).

Certain conditions can exacerbate the situation, too. Some women who have a retroverted uterus, for example, (which isn't dangerous and requires no intervention) have more <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19904733/do-you-have-ibs/" id="27906ed7-7c7e-39e4-a3ae-59c71df2306c"> bowel issues </a> because the uterus pushes down on the large intestine.

Keep in mind, though: This is a *rough* guide to how your period might mess with your digestive system, but everyones different, says Dr. Greves. The key is to and learn how to cope accordingly.

<h1> Are there any ways to control poop problems related to my period? </h1>

If youre dealing with mild GI issues, consider a trip to your local CVS for some over-the-counter solutions and a <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19993738/period-cramps/" id="f932beb6-eb7f-34fa-ac42-03709a745a64"> heating pad </a> for your lower belly.

Depending on your symptoms, you could try anti-diarrheal meds like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) for closer-to-normal poops or an anti-gas med like simethicone (Gas-X). As long as they , non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve), can actually to ease your belly aches and cramps.

If you can manage a light version of your typical workout or even a brisk walk, exercise may help give you a mood boost, reduce your discomfort, and help get you going if youre , says Dr. Greves. Switching up your diet before and during your period could also help keep your symptoms in check. When you know your periods on the way, avoid (like beans, broccoli, and dairy), and if you tend to get backed up, eat more (like fruits, veggies, and whole grains).

One thing you shouldnt do: Try to self-treat period diarrhea thats become totally life-disrupting or lasts way longer than your cycle.

<h1> Does period diarrhea ever warrant a doctors visit? </h1>

Yes. When youre in intense discomfort (think: you cant show up for work, sit still, or think about much of anything besides your out-of-whack digestive system), its time to call a doctor.

If youve been having GI symptoms like cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation that get worse during your period, you could have a gastrointestinal condition like or , so youll want to ask about visiting a specialist. If your period triggers bloody diarrhea or abdominal pain so bad that you can't eat, you may have , a condition where the cells that line your uterus pop up elsewhere, and you should definitely see an ob-gyn for a checkup.

Otherwise? Give it a few more days and hang in there. Thankfully, you only have to deal with this crap .

Why You Get Gas And Diarrhea On Your Period

Youre probably pretty comfortable commiserating with your friends about how much  ,  , and   suck on your period. But theres one problem we talk about far less, and that should change: getting diarrhea on your period. Yup, period poops are totally a thing.

Exactly Why You Get Gas And Diarrhea On Your Period

While ticks are *technically* around all year and present in virtually every U.S. state, they tend to cause the most trouble from April to September, per the . Wherever you are, when it starts warming up, thats when insects and ticks are going to be proactive, says , MD, director of the Office of Wilderness Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

What's more: Cases of tickborne diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and have , and the little critters that cause them have been , per the CDC.

This doesnt mean you have to confine yourself to the couch during warm-weather months (and please dont). The key is to lower your chances of being bitten by prepping your yard, clothes, and gear, and to know exactly what to do if you find a blood-sucker on you.

Consider this your crash course in how to get rid of ticks, keep ticks away altogether, and what to do if you get bitten, with expert insight from doctors and tick experts.

<h1> What are the best ways to get rid of ticks in your yard ? </h1>

Good news: The yard work thats already on your to-do list this time of year will help keep your tick exposure to a minimum. Ticks thrive in woodsy, high-humidity areas, and their carriers (such as deer, mice, and raccoons) are apt to wander through tall grasses or hide in piles of leaves, wood, and other debris.

So, cleaning up your yard could help <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/CAES/DOCUMENTS/Publications/Bulletins/b1010pdf.pdf?la=en" id="cc04b77a-6c12-3b84-af57-3fbafc68a341"> lower your chances of welcoming in ticks </a> and the animals that carry them. Ticks do not like sunny, manicured lawns, says Sunjya Schweig, MD, scientific advisory board member for the and co-director of the California Center for Functional Medicine in Berkeley, California.

Here are a few ways to keep your yard as tick-free as possible:

<ul><li> Keep your grass short. Ticks tend to climb onto you from surrounding greenery, so mow your lawn often (especially around the edge of your yard, fence, and sitting areas), promptly rake up and remove leaves, and prune bushes and trees, says Jim Fredericks, PhD, chief entomologist for the . </li><li> Create tick-safe hangout spots. Looking for a fun project for spring? Consider laying down a gravel or stone walkway or patio for an area near your home where you dont have to be on guard for ticks so much, or spread three feet of wood chips or mulch around the border of your yard to deter unwanted invaders, the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/in_the_yard.html">CDC</a> recommends. </li></ul>

<ul><li> Spray for ticks. You can spray areas in your yard with a pesticide that contains bifenthrin (the gold-standard chemical for tick control) yourself, but a licensed pest control pro will know exactly when to spray (sometimes, in early spring, summer, and fall) and where. You typically at least want to <a href="https://tickencounter.org/prevention/perimeter_spray">spray along the perimeter</a> of your yard, but you may want to coat just about everywhere, depending on where you live, says Thomas Mather (a.k.a. The Tick Guy), PhD, director of the Center for Vector-Borne Disease and its TickEncounter Resource Center at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston. If you hire someone, ask them about , a complimentary treatment that targets ticks attached to rodents like mice. </li><li> Put up a fence. If theres room in your budget, fencing can help keep out some tick magnets, like deer. Another option: Plant a garden to keep deer away with lots of wildflowers and fragrant herbs like rosemary and mint which, lucky for you, they dont like, says Dr. Schweig. </li></ul>

<h1> What are the best ways to get rid of ticks in your house? </h1>

Theres no need to treat the inside of your home for ticks. With the exception of the brown dog tick, most ticks cannot survive and reproduce indoors, says Fredericks. (Whew.) As such, your goal should be to make sure youre not bringing ticks in with you.

Heres what to do for a tick-free home:

<ul><li> Check yourself as soon as you get in. After youve been outside, head for a full-length mirror to do a quick tick check (it only takes about 30 seconds), says Mather. Some hot spots to look out for: Under your arms, around your ears, inside your belly button, behind your knees, between your legs, around your waist, and in your hair. </li><li> Hit the shower. Some ticks that are most likely to pass on infections like Lyme disease are about the size of the period at the end of this sentence (ugh). So, if youve been in a tick-friendly area, taking a shower is one of the easiest ways to shed super-tiny ticks that haven't latched on but are on the prowl, says Dr. Schweig. </li><li> Protect your pets. Make sure to check your pup or cat for ticks (and perhaps dont let them hop onto your bed or couch if they just came in), says Mather. For a long-term solution, ask your vet about monthly preventative meds if theyre not on them already, per the . </li><li> Heat up your laundry. After being outside or in wooded areas, wash and dry your dirty clothes on high-heat settings to kill ticks (even just 10 minutes in the dryer will do the trick), per the . Check the label on your backpack and camping gear and throw them in, too, if possible. </li></ul>

If you do find a tick has made its way into your home, resist the temptation to squish it (which could expose you to the infectious germs its carrying) and flush it or bag it instead.

<h1> Whats the best way to get rid of a tick on your body? </h1>

Let's start with what *not* to do: Don't yank it off and smash the bugger. If you rip it out, the ticks mouth could remain, along with the germs that cause infection and disease, explains Dr. Schweig. Ignore the old wives tales, too: Nail polish, vaseline, gasoline, and matches are never safe tick-removal tools, says Dr. Schrading. (If it sounds weird or dangerous, its probably not a good idea.)

Instead, grab a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and follow this handy guide to remove a tick:

<ol><li> Use tweezers (or your fingers covered with a tissue or plastic bag if you don't have tweezers) to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible. </li><li> Slowly pull the tick straight back and away from your skin. </li><li> If any parts of the ticks mouth are left in your skin, repeat as necessary to remove them. </li><li> Thoroughly clean the bite area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic, like rubbing alcohol. </li><li> Flush the tick down the toilet or dispose of it in a sealed bag or container. </li></ol>

While some diseases might be transmitted more quickly, in most cases, youre not going to develop if you remove a tick <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/media/lymedisease.html" id="50b76339-280f-3e43-a96f-2571bb4c3211"> within 24 hours </a> . If youre worried its been longer than that, you cant remove the tick, or you start to develop like a , call a doctor to figure out what you need to do.

Make sure to tell the doctor when and where you believe you were bitten, but dont worry about bringing the tick along for your appointmentyour doc will know what to do without having to examine the actual tick that bit you, says Dr. Schrading.

<h1> Whats the best way to avoid getting a tick bite altogether? </h1>

Thankfully, protecting yourself from ticks is pretty easy. Heres how to reduce your chances of getting bitten by a tick:

<ul><li> Tick-proof your wardrobe. Before you head into the woods, treat your shoes and clothing with insecticides that contain 0.5 percent permethrin by following the instructions on the label (pro tip: spray them until theyre actually wet, not just with a light spritz, and re-spray after six washes). Or, get pre-treated gear from a company like (which lasts up to 70 washes!), says Mather. </li></ul>

<ul><li> Cover up. No permethrin spray on hand but have plans to spend a lot of time outside? At least seal yourself off from ticks the best you can. Wear leggings or pants tucked into boots with socks pulled over them, tuck in a light-colored long-sleeve tee (which makes it easier to spot crawlers on you), and put on a wide-brimmed hat. </li><li> Spray on tick repellent. Use an that contains effective active ingredients (read: DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus), per the . , , and all fit the bill. </li><li> Know where ticks like to chill. Trail running, gardening, hiking, and camping could all put you in tick territory, so stick to the center of well-worn paths and dont wander off into tall grasses for a photo op. </li></ul>

Ultimately, after all of your exploring, one of the easiest things you can do to keep yourself safe from ticks is to make tick checks a habit and hop in the shower (youre probably sweaty, anyway!). And the faster you find and flush a tick, the better.

And while not every tick is carrying disease (most tick bites are totally harmless), it's always better to be safe than sorry. So protect yourself first and foremost, and don't hesitate to talk to a doctor if you're unsure about a bug bite.

How To Get Rid Of Ticks From Your Body (And Yard!)

Maybe you're itching to start a garden or relax on your lawn. Or, perhaps you can't wait to hit the hiking trails or go camping. All fun things! But any time you relish in the great outdoors you also risk exposing yourself to some pesky little buggers: ticks . So, it's crucial to know how to get rid of ticks.

How To Get Rid Of Ticks From Your Body, Clothes, House, And Yard

If youre one of over 316 million Americans who waited out weeks of stay-at-home orders, youre probably feeling excited (or worried!) to hear that <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/states-reopen-map-coronavirus.html" id="b39fcd1b-ad39-3e45-ae12-3006e43bb6d3"> the majority of U.S. states </a> are beginning to reopen for business.

This leads to a bunch of questions: When your area reopens, will you be able to go back to work right away, or will you have to wait for a certain phase? How will owners of restaurants, shopping centers, schools, offices, and other workplaces ensure you and your fellow employees are as safe as possible? And when your workplace does reopen, do you *have to* go back (you know, if youre actually loving the whole WFH thing or worried about your safety)?

As you can imagine, getting back to work will look very different depending on where you live, how the situation evolves, and the industry in which you work. If youre feeling up in the air about everything, youre in good companythis is new territory for everyone, including business owners.

So, if youve got the back-to-work jitters, take a deep breath and read on. Here, medical experts weigh in on everything you need to know about going back to work during COVID-19.

<h1> Please tell me: When can I get back to work? </h1>

As of May 12, most states have at least partially reopened, which means you *might* technically be back to return to work in some capacity very soon if you havent already heard from your employer. That being said, the rules for getting back to work vary vastly from state to state (and even in different cities and counties).

Why? After the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to the White House, the novel coronavirus task force thought they were and released their own <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-beginning-next-phase-fight-coronavirus-guidelines-opening-america/" id="ecd5681a-1a14-3d17-ad2f-ab553a5e6e09"> three-phase guide </a> to reopening the country. Its pretty open-ended, which means governors and local leaders are free to basically make their own decisions on how to move forward, including when and how different types of businesses can open.

Many areas are opting for phases of reopening , beginning with businesses that can run while still promoting social distancing outdoors, such as state parks, construction sites, and recreation areas like golf courses and camping sites. Typically, the last businesses scheduled to open at full capacity are bars.

There are many factors to take into account as states reopen, such as how many people are infected and hospitalized with COVID-19 in the state, whether hospitals can handle a surge in cases, the likelihood of crowds of people developing, and the ability to monitor COVID-19 through testing and contact tracing (or getting in touch with people who have been in contact with someone whos tested positive for COVID-19 and enforcing quarantine to reduce the spread of the virus), says , dean of the School of Health Sciences and Practice at New York Medical College and former chief medical officer for the CDC.

In order to go back to work in an as-safe-as-possible situation, you want a in novel coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in your area. The problem: so far havent had that. As such, many infectious disease experts are concerned that the infection rate and death rate will increase sharply very quickly, warns , an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health.

What this means for you: Back to work might not mean back to work for goodyou could be in for and working from home if theres a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in your area, says Dr. Amler.

Of course, even if your place of work is back in business, you still need to consider your personal health status, too, says Michael. If youre part of an , youre best off working from home as much as possible, so dont be afraid to ask your employer about special accommodations, per the .

<h1> What will returning to work during COVID-19 look like? </h1>

Theres no one-size-fits-all scenario for safely getting back to work during the novel coronavirus pandemic, but the key is to block the virus from spreading at every opportunity, notes Dr. Amler.

In order to go back to work in a safe-as-possible situation, you want a in novel coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in your area.

For many workplaces, that will mean having employees come back in waves based on health status, staggering work hours to reduce contact, and closing off common spaces. Expect to keep following the rules youre already used to in public spaces like wearing a face mask, keeping 6 feet between you and other people, washing your hands frequently, disinfecting surfaces often, and not coming in if you feel sick. You may also have temperature checks and questionnaires to screen for when you show up for your shift.

Here are a few changes to be prepared for (or ask your employer about before you head back):

<ul><li> If you work in an open-office setting, youre in a particularly problematic setting for easy spread of COVID-19, so you might need plexiglass shields separating your workspaces and staggered work hours to reduce contact with coworkers, says Michael. Best-case scenario: WFH, she says. </li><li> If you work in a <a href="https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3996.pdf">restaurant, bar, or retail</a> , expect more drive-thru, drop-off, and curbside services, plexiglass shields at spaced-out cash registers, and signs or floor tape marking proper social distancing for checkout lines. Youll also need to space out tables, reduce the amount of people allowed per party, and stick with outdoor seating if you can, she says. </li><li> If you work at a school or childcare center , expect staggered start and end times for school days, no more school assemblies or crowded events, spaced-out desks, and increased ventilation measures (like open windows), to name a few, per the <a href="https://int.nyt.com/data/documenthelper/6935-CDC-opening-guidelines/e1a8802d0d76b3eb43a8/optimized/full.pdf#page=1">CDC</a> and <a href="https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/key-messages-and-actions-for-covid-19-prevention-and-control-in-schools-march-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=baf81d52_4">World Health Organization</a> (WHO). </li><li> If you typically work behind a computer or laptop, you might be able to make the switch to WFH long-term. , for example, is allowing most of their employees to work from home through 2020. </li></ul>

The main thing to remember: Its still important to continue even as you go back to work, says Dr. Amler. After all, thats our best tool in the battle against the novel coronavirus.

<h1> What if Im worried about going back to work? </h1>

Honestly, whether or not you go back to work is a highly personal decision you have to make based on where you work, your trust (or lack thereof) in your employer, and your risk of exposure or severe complications if you catch the virus. Its important to be cautious, says Dr. Amler. If you have permission to keep working remotely from my employer after social distancing guidelines are lifted in your area, it's worth taking advantage of that option.

If you can keep working from home, you should, says Michael. Even if youre not at high risk, you might come into contact with in your workplace, whether thats a customer or coworker. And even if you feel perfectly well, its easy to spread COVID-19 without even knowing it, considering . Until we have a , everyone is at risk of catching COVID-19, so its best to stay in as much as you caneven if that means <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a26306917/fast-stress-relief-techniques/" id="e46a5bee-a2da-30b3-a380-2b2199d17a9c"> many more Zoom calls </a> in your future.

When Can I Go Back To Work? Experts Weigh In

When Can I Go Back To Work During Novel Coronavirus? Experts Weigh In

After the novel coronavirus outbreak hit the United States, over 90 percent of dental practices closed down and canceled non-urgent procedures like teeth cleanings, according to the <a href="https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2020-archive/april/ada-recovery-task-force-seek-to-address-ppe-shortages" id="bb9c8255-b2bb-34c3-a516-e05d229d2eb0"> American Dental Association </a> . The goal: to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and free up valuable personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies for health care workers on the frontlines.

For weeks, many dentists have only been able to see patients for emergencies, per , which caused many people to fall behind (or even more behind than usual, let's be honest) on routine dental appointments. Now that the U.S. has begun to reopen, you might be wondering: When can I schedule a dental appointment? And is it even safe to go in for a cleaning right now?

Read on for everything you need to know about dental care in the time of COVID-19, including whether or not you should go in for your cleaning once your city or state reopens and how to ensure youre in a safe space when you do.

<h1> Is going to the dentist even allowed right now? </h1>

That depends on where you live, says , DDM, a practicing dentist and owner of Dunn Dental Group in Washington, D.C. While dental offices are generally considered essential businesses, what that means from state to state varies vastly.

For the most part, dental offices have been closed with exceptions for emergencies during stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders, per the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/statement-COVID.html" id="16dc112c-bfb4-392b-a492-c3bd85a2039c"> CDC </a> . Now its up to local governments to decide when they feel comfortable allowing dental offices to reopen for non-urgent or elective procedures like teeth cleanings, she says.

You can get information about mandates, regulations, and recommendations for dentistry by state with this interactive map from the American Dental Association (ADA).

As of May 7, 23 states have allowed dental offices to reopen for cleanings, per the <a href="https://success.ada.org/en/practice-management/patients/covid-19-state-mandates-and-recommendations?utm_source=adaorg&amp;utm_medium=covid-statement-200401&amp;utm_content=stateaction&amp;utm_campaign=covid-19" id="9c93901d-5e29-3b58-a40c-fb9a50516288"> ADA </a> , and many others are scheduled to follow suit in the upcoming days and weeks.

But some other state governments (like in New York, Michigan, and Washington) are still advising dental offices to stick with emergency-only appointments, which are determined on a case-by-case basis, per .

If your dental office is indeed open for business, there are still some safety concerns to consider in light of COVID-19.

<h1> Why might going to the dentist be a risky move right now? </h1>

For starters, COVID-19 is a tricky virus. If you, another patient, or a dental staff member are carrying the virus, you might unknowingly spread it to other people for days , says , MD, an infectious disease specialist and deputy medical director at Westmed Medical Group in Purchase, New York.

That means, even if dental offices are screening patients and staff for symptoms of COVID-19, without actually <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31266839/how-do-you-get-tested-for-coronavirus/" id="298abd1c-37b7-3fc4-a686-30231b3c78e3"> testing employees and patients for the disease </a> ahead of the appointment, someone carrying the virus could still make their way in. (FDA-approved tests for COVID-19 have not yet been made available to dentists in the U.S., according to a recent <a href="https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2020-archive/april/ada-offers-interim-guidance-as-dentists-consider-reopening-practices" id="1e65657c-2a79-3f27-a155-018671b223ea"> statement </a> from the ADA.)

Sadly, it's basically impossible to get your teeth cleaned without putting yourself at risk. The new coronavirus <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31674258/is-coronavirus-airborne/" id="34655799-7fb3-3098-a5eb-168f49ef8143"> spreads primarily via respiratory droplets </a> at close distances. You cant exactly wear a face mask while your teeth are being cleanedwhich means your nose and mouth are totally exposed, says , MD, an infectious disease specialist and director of the antimicrobial management program at Emory University Hospital.

Dental staff are at an even greater risk of contracting COVID-19, Dr. Kesh and Dr. Varkey agree. Sure, dentists can wear a face mask during the entire procedure (which <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a32032755/diy-fabric-masks-novel-coronavirus/" id="f24a4a22-8b52-3247-aa49-aca3ecc79d6e"> can help keep their germs in and away from you </a> ).

However, getting your teeth cleaned is typically a pretty messy process, no matter how often your dental hygienist kindly wipes your face. Those high-speed instruments dentists use for every teeth cleaning tend to spray large droplets of water, saliva, blood, microorganisms, and food particles out of your mouth and into the air. This process could produce an aerosol or mist, says Dr. Kesh, and spread the virus if the patient is infected.

Viral particles could also potentially linger on surfaces or in the air after the fact, too. More research needs to be done on whether you could catch COVID-19 wafting through the airwaves, but a showed viral particles may survive for three hours in the form of an aerosol. Since most dentists dont have airborne infection isolation rooms or single-patient rooms, that makes a dental office a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/dental-settings.html" id="c2d5a26d-1109-3d75-adcf-326b5a92c5d5"> high-risk area </a> , says Dr. Varkey.

Another concern: PPE is in high demand and short supply right now. While , DDS, a dentist based in Beverly Hills, says he hasnt had issues getting the supplies his office needs, Dr. Dunn notes that she hasnt been able to find hairnets (a.k.a. bouffant caps) and has only enough PPE to see a limited number of patients.

<h1> Does this mean a cleaning is a hard no? Im overdue! </h1>

Honestly, it depends. If your area is experiencing a downturn in COVID-19 cases and has allowed dental offices to open for non-emergency procedures, you can (and perhaps should) get your teeth cleaned.

I wouldnt recommend people put off their dental appointments because teeth cant heal themselves, says Dr. Dunn. If youre overdue for a dental appointment and put it off for even longer, you might set yourself up for a bigger and more costly problem later on, like the need for a root canal (ugh).

\"Dont be afraid to advocate for yourself by calling up your dental office to ask what theyre doing to protect you, their staff, and other patients.\" Sandra Kesh, MD

On the other hand, if youre in a community where theres been a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases, delaying a routine cleaning or elective procedure is probably a prudent choice to make, says Dr. Varkey. In this case, youd be protecting yourself and doing your part to practice <a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/preview/eyJpZCI6IjI5MGNkOWM5LTUwZDYtNDhkOC1hZTczLWFkNGZlY2E3YzgxYiIsInR5cGUiOiJjb250ZW50IiwidmVyc2lvbiI6MCwidmVyc2lvbmVkIjpmYWxzZSwidmVyc2lvbl9jcmVhdGVkX2F0IjoiIn0=/" id="87ea8914-ed9d-39ab-a278-4505194cf194"> social distancing </a> the most effective tool we have to slow the spread of the virus, he says.

So, in short, whether or not you head in for a dental cleaning depends on your individual health needs, says Dr. Kesh. If youre not sure what to do, have a history of dental problems, or typically need routine cleanings due to a health condition like gum disease or heart disease, call your dentist to figure out the best decision for you, she suggests.

<h1> What if I have a dental emergency? </h1>

By all means, call your dentist right away if you have any , says Dr. Maddahi. Trauma (such as a broken tooth), bleeding, or an infection (which can cause throbbing or constant pain, swelling in your gums, face, or neck, or a pimple-like abscess in your mouth) are all legitimate reasons to seek professional dental care ASAP. And infections arent to be messed with, as they can be life-threatening, says Dr. Varkey.

<h1> Will dentist appointments look different when social distancing ends? </h1>

Absolutely, says Dr. Maddahi. While dental offices already tend to be on the super-clean side, many dentists are taking it up a notch to protect themselves, their staff, and patients from COVID-19, according to new .

Heres what you might expect if you head in for a dental appointment in the near future:

<ul><li> Staggered appointments. To promote social distancing, many offices are spreading out appointments and ditching the traditional waiting room (so you may not even see another patient). </li><li> A screening questionnaire. Before you come in, expect a phone call with questions about whether youve had or been around others who were sick with it. You might also get a temperature check at the door. </li><li> Masked dental staff. The ADA that dental staff wear surgical masks or N95 masks. </li><li> No guests allowed. Unless its medically necessary to have someone else come along, youll be at the dentist by yourself, says Dr. Maddahi. </li></ul>

When her practice reopens, Dr. Dunn plans to offer hand sanitizer and face masks at the door, check temperatures at the door, and install specialized air filters, among many other safety measures. She also hopes that dentists will be given access to testing kits in order to actively screen for COVID-19.

If youre considering scheduling an appointment, dont be afraid to advocate for yourself by calling up your dental office to ask what theyre doing to protect you, their staff, and other patients, says Dr. Kesh.

<h1> The bottom line? Keeping yourself and others safe from COVID-19 is important. So is routine dental care. </h1>

Ultimately, whether or not its time for a dental appointment when your area opens up depends on your health status, dental needs, and comfort level with the COVID-19 situation is in your area. If youre super overdue for an appointment, theres no risk in asking your dentist what theyd recommend. And if youre facing a full-on dental emergency, call a dental office ASAP to get the help you need.

Finally, remember to , , and if youve been <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/health/sleep/a708349/bruxism/" id="9fa9db35-1aa6-309b-a227-eca9e8767591"> grinding your teeth at night </a> (#stress), get an over-the-counter mouthguard to protect your pearly whites, says Dr. Dunn.

Is It Safe To Go To The Dentist During COVID-19?

Is It Safe To Go To The Dentist For A Cleaning? Experts Weigh In

With the majority of the United States still under stay-at-home or <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31708006/shelter-in-place-novel-coronavirus-covid-19/" id="35828f5b-8112-3a8d-a51e-3d80a2306592"> shelter-in-place </a> orders, many folks are very overdue for haircuts and styling appointments. Yup, this can make for some unruly split ends, fading color, and even self-styled corona cuts in desperate times. If youre craving professional help to or youve got the sudden urge to out of pure boredom, you might be Googling: When can I get a haircut again?

Read on for everything you need to know about when youll finally be able to head into your local hair salon, plus how to keep yourself and your hairstylist as safe as possible when you do. Depending on where you live, it might be sooner than you think (so drop the scissors, sis).

<h1> Remind me, why are haircuts off limits right now? </h1>

Businesses are either considered essential or non-essential right now, meaning they are either essential to keeping the state and country running or not. Essential businesses generally include things like grocery stores, gas stations, businesses that provide mailing services, and hospitalsand technically it is up for individual <a href="https://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026" id="efa0dc78-b80a-3a5c-a60b-88e931978eec"> states </a> and <a href="https://sf.gov/check-if-business-essential" id="dff15826-687c-3339-a569-0c5dae1dea46"> cities </a> to determine what businesses fall under which category. Hair salons and barber shops have pretty much been considered non-essential across the board, though.

Getting your haircut is also risky for your health and the health of those around you. Remember: Novel coronavirus is primarily <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31402318/how-does-novel-coronavirus-spread/" id="2c25b247-80fc-3946-a07f-5250c73cd968"> spread via respiratory droplets </a> traveling from an infected person to another individual, generally within a 6-foot distance. So being in close proximity with someone, like your hair stylist, puts you both at risk if one of you is positive for the virus. (And <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31646078/coronavirus-infect-people-without-symptoms/" id="4a48e226-e99a-362c-a8e7-bbbce1822b7f"> you might be even if you don't know it </a> , if you're asymptomatic.)

Even if you do all the right things like and , the amount of time youre spending in close contact with someone is the key factor for transmitting this infection, says , MD, an infectious disease specialist and deputy medical director at Westmed Medical Group in Purchase, New York.

Unfortunately, youre <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a32032737/diy-face-mask-coronavirus-bandana-scarf/" id="500170d3-3ed7-3113-a65d-c725e310af8f"> never 100 percent protected by a face mask </a> , which is why with the 6-feet rule is your safest bet for now. Unless you have a hairdresser with very long arms, that isnt happening, says Dr. Kesh.

The big question: When can I get a haircut again?

That depends on where you live, what your idea of a safe-enough haircut is, and what your local government decides to do, says Paul Meechan, PhD, a biosafety consultant and former director of the Office of Safety, Health, and Environment at the CDC.

<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/restaurants-apparel-which-states-are-reopening-what-stores-next-week-2020-4" id="82600575-88e2-301f-a24e-c041368764ca"> Sixteen states </a> , including Colorado, Florida, and South Carolina, plan on reopening non-essential businesses like hair salons in the next few weeks, while like New York, California, and Illinois are extending their stay-at-home orders or reopening in gradual phases.

At the time of publication, these are the states that are already technically open for haircuts:

<ul><li> In Alaska , hair salons are open for business, but theyre urged to follow from health officials . </li><li> Georgia has and other non-essential businesses like gyms and tattoo parlors, though some salon owners have opted to remain closed. </li><li> Maryland salons have reopenedbut whose jobs require grooming, and cuts are given one at a time with face coverings. For example, if a first responder or military personnel requires grooming to meet grooming standards established by their employer, they are allowed to do so. </li><li> Montana salons are <a itemtype="link" id="07bd0420-e944-35bd-aa00-ce34f654d6c4" itemscope="itemscope"> <meta content="https://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/some-montana-stores-cautiously-reopen-as-restrictions-eased/article_6edc2b1f-c638-5b29-8dce-e8b006337e74.html" itemprop="url"/> open for business </a> . </li><li> Oklahoma salons are . </li></ul>

Really, whether or not you head to your hair salon or call up your hair stylist for an at-home appointment (more on that next) as soon as stay-at-home orders are lifted in your area is a personal decision.

Keep in mind that until the U.S. has at the level needed to assess whether the masses have immunity to the novel coronavirus (and until experts are sure these tests *actually* tell you whether youve developed an immunity that keeps you safe from ), you *are* taking a risk, says Dr. Kesh. to make an informed decision thats right for you, she suggests.

<h1> Would it be dangerous to have my stylist come to my home? </h1>

Until it's deemed safe to stop social distancing and gather with others, yes, it would be dangerous. Again, getting a haircutno matter where you get itis the opposite of social distancing. This puts you, your hairstylist, and whoever you live with at risk, from your partner or roommate to your entire apartment building.

Even if you and your hairstylist feel perfectly fine, as many as of people infected with COVID-19 might have no whatsoever but , according to , MD, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Meechan says that the person taking the greatest risk would be your hairstylist, as they have to travel from their home to you and expose themselves to your entire household. Mallorie Clark, a licensed hairstylist who works at Great Clips in Knoxville, Tennessee, says shes had many clients basically beg for at-home haircuts since her area locked downbut she has to say no. Hairstylists are people. We miss our clients and conversations. But some stylists, like me, have health issues that make us more susceptible to contracting the virus, and my biggest concern is taking it home to my kids, Clark explains.

Clark and her children are at an increased risk of catching the novel coronavirus and developing complications from the disease due to . Beyond their own safety concerns, Clark and many other hairstylists dont have barbicide or other state board-approved cleaners or containers at home anywaywhich theyre required to use, she notes.

<h1> When Im allowed to see my stylist, how can we go about the appointment safely? </h1>

Some salons that have already opened are , such as regularly disinfecting surfaces, having stylists and customers wear masks and gloves, spacing out work stations, skipping blow drying to shorten appointment times, and keeping hand sanitizer in stock. Clarks franchise has plans to provide plastic face shields, masks, and gloves for each stylist and customer and install Plexiglas barriers at the checkout counter.

When you get the all-clear in your area, there are a few ways you can keep yourself and your hairstylist as safe as possible.

<ul><li> Carefully wash your hands before and after your appointment. </li><li> Wear a high-quality cloth face mask and eye covering such as sunglasses upon entering your appointment and during as much as you can, says Dr. Kesh. (Obviously, if eye covering interferes with the cut, you can remove it when need be.) </li><li> If you and your hairstylist arrange an at-home appointment, isolate the two of you to an area you have cleaned and disinfected, and ask that additional members of your household do not enter while the stylist is present, advises Meechan. </li></ul>

While youre best off keeping your appointment quick, theres no need to limit chitchatand social connection is something were all in need of right now, adds Meechan.

<h1> Ultimately, your safest and most responsible choice right now is to wait it out. </h1>

Its , and everyone wishes they could be the exception to , but it only works if we all do our part. In the meantime, consider creative alternatives like video chatting with your stylist for a or .

Or, as Clark suggests, just hang tight. It can be really difficult to fix a botched haircut, and it may take longer than your stay-at-home order to grow it out, she says. Throwing your hair up in a or taming it with a cute can help keep your hair off your mind, she says. And remember: Were all in this crisis together.

When Can I Get A Haircut During Novel Coronavirus?

When Can I Get A Haircut Again? Experts Weigh In

Life has changed super fast thanks to . But one thing that hasnt changed for many people is the desire to connect with others, and the desire to have physical intimacy.

So far, there have been 163,539 cases of confirmed or presumptively positive novel coronavirus in the U.S., per the from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), updated April 1. But the situation continues to evolve minute to minute, as does our understanding of whats currently considered safe to dostaying home, practicing , washing your hands a ton. But what about sex?

The same-old rules of certainly apply, but theres a bit more you need to know to protect yourself and your current (or potential) sexual partners right now. Read on for answers to a few questions experts have been asked about sex in the time of novel coronavirus. Knowing what you canand what you shouldn'tdo will give you some much-needed peace of mind, and youll be able to get it on as safely as possible.

<h1> Q: Can the virus spread through sexual activity? </h1>

A: Unfortunately, yes. You likely already know that the novel coronavirus <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31402318/how-does-novel-coronavirus-spread/" id="752bf7fe-3195-3ced-a5ee-6669aeabe993"> spreads via respiratory droplets </a> , like when someone coughs or sneezes on you or a nearby surface (although just how long these droplets hover in the air or survive once theyve landed is ). After that, if you touch someone or something that has the virus on it and then touch your face, the virus can enter your system through your nose or mouth, says , MD, a specialist in infectious diseases and family physician in Phoenix, Arizona.

So, even if you arent kissing while engaging in some type of sexual activity, even cuddling or being physically close with a person who's carrying the virus can increase your risk of catching it, Dr. Bhuyan points out. And, naturally, direct contact with saliva or nasal mucus (like if you're kissing or making out, or if you get it on your hands and then touch your face) will do the trick, too.

To get more in the weeds here, the virus hasnt yet been detected in semen or vaginal fluid as far as experts knowbut it has been detected in feces. This means that if a particle of fecal matter comes into contact with your mouth, it could lead to infection, says Dr. Bhuyan.

But even if you abstain from kissing or other forms of oral pleasure and stimulation, remember: Regardless of whatever in-person sexual activity youre considering (vaginal intercourse, anal, foreplay, etc.), youre at an increased risk of contracting or spreading the virus if youre within 6 feet of someone. As such, all physical contact falls into the risky category, says , MD, an infectious disease specialist and deputy medical director at Westmed Medical Group in Purchase, New York.

An important note: This is true even if you and your partner(s) are feeling perfectly healthy and well. You or a partner could be carrying the virus or , per the . For this reason, one of the most caring things you can do for yourself and any sex partners is to keep your distance (physically!).

<h1> Q: Sois it safe to have sex during COVID-19? </h1>

A: Nope, not 100 percent safe. That being said, there is a difference between having sex with a partner in your home and sex with someone totally new, says Dr. Bhuyan.

Does that mean a live-in partner, for instance, is okay?

If youre in a committed relationship and know their risk is low and yours is, too, thats the only scenario when I would say its okay to have sex right now, says Dr. Kesh. Why? Put simply, you know where theyve been. If you and a partner live under the same roof and youve been self-isolating for weeks, your risk of picking up the virus (and passing it on) is far lower than it would be if you were still out and about and crossing paths with other people. So, go for itbut *safely* (more on that later).

What about brand-new sex partners?

Swipe right, sure, but your best bet is keeping all your intimacy online for the time being. The biggest no-no is meeting up with people who you dont know, says Dr. Kesh. Id absolutely avoid casual contact or taking on new partners, because thats where youre putting yourself in a much more exposed situation.

Unfortunately, you just dont know if someone else (or you!) could be carrying the virus, so the safest assumption is that its a possibility. And, of course, youre also putting others at risk if you have to travel to see each other. While it totally sucks to put your in-person sex life on hold, this is one way you can keep yourself safe and do your part to help reduce the spread of the virus overall.

There is one silver lining: Nows a great time to , says Dr. Kesh. , , , and are all risk-free alternatives (and , imagine how *great* the sex will be when you do finally meet up IRL). Just remember to sanitize your phone, keyboard, touch screens, and sex toys before and after you get it on, says Dr. Kesh.

<h1> Q: If a partner is in my household, how can we have sex as safely as possible? </h1>

A: Safe sex during a pandemic may be slightly more hygienic than what youre used to on a typical day. Here, how to get fresh and clean before you get down and dirty:

<ul><li> Wash your paws. You know the drill: Lather up your hands with soap and water, then scrub for a good 20 seconds frequently and before and after you hit the sheets. Alternatively, a hand sanitizer with 70 percent alcohol works, too, says Dr. Kesh. </li><li> Sanitize surfaces. When youre stuck at home, you might as well get it on wherever you want (the laundry room, kitchen counter, floor). Just make sure to wipe down surfaces as well as sex toys and any other go-to accessories with a disinfectant or soap and water before you and after you get it on, says Dr. Bhuyan. </li><li> Know your boundaries if youre an at-risk person. Its extra important to take precautions if you or your partner is or <a itemtype="link" id="d3f4cc3b-4844-3ba4-abe7-9227227da5df" itemscope="itemscope"> <meta content="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/health/conditions/a31653570/coronavirus-help/" itemprop="url"/> part of a vulnerable population </a> (like being an older adult), says Dr. Bhuyan. Chances are, you already have your own house rules to protect yourselves, but talk to your doctor to be sure about whats okay and what youre best off skipping (sex might be off the table). </li></ul>

<h1> Q: Anything I should know about COVID-19 and masturbation? </h1>

A: Masturbation is the one foolproof thing you can do, says Dr. Kesh. Yay! It also makes for an awesome to help you get some shut-eye if COVID-19 anxiety is keeping you up at night. The same hygiene rules apply: Before and after, wash your hands along with any sex toys and your keyboard or touch screen. These simple steps lower your risk of catching the virus significantly, says Dr. Kesh.

The bottom line: In the time of coronavirus, your safest sex partner is, well, you! The next-safest person is an established partner you've been sharing your space with. Otherwise? Nows the time to get creative and use technology for sexual activity.

Is It Safe To Have Sex During The New Coronavirus?

Everything To Know About Having Sex During The New Coronavirus Pandemic

As rapidly becomes the new normal amid the , you may have wondered whether it's still a potential risk to share space and cross paths even at a distance. After all, if people without symptoms , could this mean that any time you leave your house you might be exposed to the virus wafting through the air?

Because this is a brand-new coronavirus, the acknowledges that "we are still learning how it spreads , the severity of illness it causes, and to what extent it may spread in the United States." While more research is needed for a definitive answer to this question, infectious disease experts can shed some light on what they know so far about whether or not the novel coronavirus can spread through the air.

<h1> So...is the novel coronavirus airborne? </h1>

The short answer is probably notbut it's complicated. And it's also important to note that airborne can mean different things to different people, even experts. In general, a pathogen is considered airborne when it can spread via smaller particles that can remain in the air for long periods of time, says , MD, a specialist in infectious diseases and family physician in Phoenix, Arizona. The exact length of time that viral particles in general hang in the air before they dissipate depends on a variety of factors, including the temperature and humidity of the area, and so on, adds , MD, a former epidemic intelligence service officer in the division of viral diseases at the CDC.

Now let's talk about COVID-19 specifically: When someone who has novel coronavirus coughs or sneezes, the tiny droplets that come out of their nose and mouth are like a tiny cloud of mistand its *possible* that they linger, says Dr. Desai. Experts just don't know at this point for how long, be it a few seconds or <a href="https://apnews.com/545af824f44a22f7559c74679a4f1f53" id="3431b171-8307-3eda-a366-b34ca933eb31"> more like hours </a> .

But, chances are, even if a fine mist of the novel coronavirus hangs around where the person sprayed the droplets, it's likely only reaching six feet from the point of origination, according to the . As the organization <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/infection-control/control-recommendations.html" id="bf464e6b-edf4-3b46-a909-4adc9d64f10f"> states </a> , "airborne transmission from person-to-person over long distances is unlikely." And just over a week ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus that the novel coronavirus is "not airborne," but instead "spreads from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with #COVID19 coughs or exhales."

Dr. Bhuyan reiterates that message, saying youre most likely to catch it directly from an infected person when they cough or sneeze droplets containing viral particles, and those particles land on your face, body, or a <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31402318/how-does-novel-coronavirus-spread/" id="93f9de2d-9e97-3ff3-a68d-50a7bcca1550"> nearby surface </a> (where you could potentially pick them up and then touch your face, for example). And again, were talking pretty tight person-to-person contact. Remember, though: A person might not even know they have novel coronavirus because <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31266839/how-do-you-get-tested-for-coronavirus/" id="1622fce8-001d-30a1-a94a-fbd1656a0bff"> they're asymptomatic </a> and they can still transmit it via respiratory droplets. So your safest bet is staying six feet away from, well, pretty much everybody as much as you can.

Measles, as another example, is one of the most contagious infectious diseases of all timeand the measles virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person steps out, per the . The , which first emerged in 2012, was also found in infectious form in air samples taken from hospitals where patients were being treated, per a . But the same is not currently thought to be the case for novel coronavirus, notes Dr. Bhuyanthough theres <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html" id="63a73abe-287b-3077-a132-236eb7d6e80f"> still a lot to learn </a> about how COVID-19 spreads. So, it's important to take all info with a grain of salt as new discoveries pop up.

Lauren Krouse

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