COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person talks, coughs, sneezes, or breathes. These droplets can then land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Additionally, COVID-19 can spread by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching the face, particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes.

Here are some key ways in which COVID-19 spreads:

1. Close Contact: The virus can spread between people who are in close contact with one another, typically within about 6 feet (2 meters) of each other. Close contact can occur through activities such as talking, hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.
2. Respiratory Droplets: Respiratory droplets containing the virus can be released into the air when an infected person talks, coughs, sneezes, or breathes. These droplets can then be inhaled by nearby individuals, leading to infection.
3. Airborne Transmission: In certain settings, COVID-19 can spread through airborne transmission, particularly in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation. This occurs when smaller respiratory droplets and particles containing the virus linger in the air for an extended period and can be inhaled by people who are farther away from the infected person.
4. Contaminated Surfaces: COVID-19 can spread by touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them and then touching the face, particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes. However, this is not considered the primary way the virus spreads, as it is thought to be less common than person-to-person transmission.
5. Asymptomatic and Pre-symptomatic Spread: Infected individuals who do not have symptoms (asymptomatic) or have not yet developed symptoms (pre-symptomatic) can still spread the virus to others. This highlights the importance of preventive measures such as wearing masks and practicing physical distancing, even in the absence of symptoms.

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, it's important to follow public health guidelines and recommendations, such as wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, washing hands frequently, avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, and getting vaccinated when eligible. These measures help to minimize the risk of transmission and protect individuals and communities from COVID-19.