How can I reduce the spread of infection in my home? While you're self-isolating, you should: wash your hands with soap and water often, for at least 20 seconds use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards clean objects and surfaces you touch often (like door handles, kettles and phones) using your regular cleaning products Manage Cookie Preferences