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COVID-19: Everything you need to know to stay healthy and entertained while stuck at home

All of the tips you'll need to work, cook and stay sane while practicing social distancing.

Alison DeNisco Rayome Managing Editor
Managing Editor Alison DeNisco Rayome joined CNET in 2019, and is a member of the Home team. She is a co-lead of the CNET Tips and We Do the Math series, and manages the Home Tips series, testing out new hacks for cooking, cleaning and tinkering with all of the gadgets and appliances in your house. Alison was previously an editor at TechRepublic.
Expertise Home Tips, including cooking, cleaning and appliances hacks Credentials
  • National Silver Azbee Award for Impact/Investigative Journalism; National Gold Azbee Award for Online Single Topic Coverage by a Team; National Bronze Azbee Award for Web Feature Series
Alison DeNisco Rayome
5 min read
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Getty/Justin Paget

Schools, businesses, restaurants, gyms, museums and other public places across the US closed down this month in attempts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people are staying home and practicing social distancing to avoid spreading the viral disease further. 

If you're not used to spending all of your time at home, whether you live alone or with a partner, a family or roommates, you might be feeling a little unsure of how to pass the time -- especially since the government's social distancing directive might last for weeks. Never fear: CNET has put together this guide of everything you need to know about coronavirus and infection prevention, but also tips for working, cooking, learning and staying physically and mentally healthy from home. 

Read more: Best services for working, eating and entertaining yourself at home

Coronavirus basics

Here's everything you need to know about coronavirus, including the most recent updates, guidelines, cancellations and where to find more information: 

Watch this: Vaccines, antibody tests, treatments: The science of ending the pandemic

How to avoid getting infected with coronavirus

If you still have to work or do things outside of your home, here are some tips for avoiding infection, including how to properly sanitize your home and phone: 

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Working from home tips

Here's everything you need to work from home efficiently, from video conferencing services to tips on how to stay sane:

35 things to buy if you're stuck at home thanks to coronavirus (besides toilet paper)

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Cooking (or ordering food) at home tips

Making your way around the kitchen for the first time in a while? Here are some apps, services and tips to help you channel your inner Gordon Ramsay and finally use that Instant Pot or slow cooker (just keep the yelling to a minimum, for the sake of your pet): 

Keeping the kids busy with schoolwork and entertainment

With schools closed across the country, millions of kids are at home and in need of virtual education or at least entertainment. Here are some resources to help parents out: 

Watch this: Great online education and distance learning services for kids stuck at home

Keeping yourself entertained

Adults need help staying busy while social distancing, too. Here are some ideas for you:

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Staying mentally healthy 

Keeping your mental health in check will be key for making it through social distancing. Here are some resources to help you manage anxiety and sleep , and find online therapy and telehealth services: 

The 17 best health and fitness apps for Apple Watch

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Exercising from home

Just because gyms are closed doesn't mean you shouldn't say physically active. Here are some tips for working out from your house, whether you have any exercise equipment or not: 

Watch this: High-tech fitness equipment for your home
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.