What You Can Do

Last updated: April 15, 2020

Healthy building environments can play an important role in combating the spread of infectious disease, including coronavirus (COVID-19).

In alignment with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and public health recommendations, the Healthy Buildings Team at Harvard has prepared guidelines to aid in the prevention of COVID-19 through basics of COVID-19 prevention, cleaning and disinfecting of electronics, and building control and operation. In addition to these general preventative best practices, we provide specific recommendations to reduce COVID-19 spread in food establishments, childcare, and public transportation facilities. 

This guidance is not intended to replace policy or direction specific to your local government or institution.

• If you develop symptoms such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath,  return from international travel, or have been in close contact with someone who has confirmed COVID-19, follow the CDC instructions on when to stay home.
• Signs and symptoms of infection with COVID-19 include fever (100.4°F or greater with an oral thermometer), cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. CDC lists factors that contribute to higher risk.