Due to the rapid spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), government officials have instructed the public to practice social distancing and staying at home. Colleges and universities have responded by closing or moving their classes online, but medical students and academic labs across the country still have a key role to play in fighting the spread of the virus — while trying to keep themselves safe and healthy at the same time.

With the virus spreading more quickly than hospitals can handle and personal protective equipment (PPE) running dangerously low, medical students are urged to be especially cautious when it comes to their own hygiene and overall health. Rodney Rohde, Ph.D., a medical laboratory professional who specializes in virology, says that “being prepared” is the best way for med students, as well as professionals, to stay safe when treating patients with COVID-19.

Med students should follow the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when it comes to wearing proper PPE inside of a medical facility, but they should also be conscious about what they are doing to stay healthy on their days off. Getting enough sleep, practicing social distancing, eating healthy and getting enough physical exercise, as well as mental rest, is key. There’s so much that we still don’t know about the Coronavirus, including how long it will affect the population, so taking these precautions now will help keep those who are fighting it healthy enough to continue their life-saving work.

If you’re interested in learning what precautions you should take, refer to the CDC’s guidelines to keep yourself and those around you safe and healthy.