The port city of Qingdao – in East China's Shandong province – is rolling out COVID-19 vaccinations for those aged 12-17, according to local media on Aug 6.

In an effort to streamline the community governance system and better carry out mass vaccinations in its Shinan district, the city is applying a grid-type service and information system related to pandemic control and mass vaccinations.

This is said to be demonstrating Shinan's competence in its grassroots governance.

"A few days ago, I received a call from my community and I took my children to have the vaccine on the weekend," said a local resident surnamed Li. "It's so thoughtful the community call the parents one by one and tell them to bring their children to be vaccinated."

In addition, the city will carry out mass vaccination for minors in stages and by age, from senior students to those in the junior grades.

The city's initial plan is to complete the first dose of vaccination for teens aged 15-17 before Aug 7, while kicking off vaccinations for those aged 12-14 by the end of August.

The city's 12-17 age group is expected to have completed their vaccinations by the end of September.

Here are some tips on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

Maintain social distancing

Maintain at least a one-meter distance between yourself and anyone else, especially if they are coughing or sneezing.

Avoid physical contact when greeting others

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends you avoid shaking hands with others, as the virus could easily be spread that way. Alternatives include a wave, a nod or a bow.

Apply hand sanitizer regularlyAlways keep a bottle of hand sanitizer available in your home as well as one in your car or bag, if you do have to go out.

Wash your hands frequently with soap for 20 seconds

The WHO says that washing your hands is a more effective way of offering protection than wearing rubber gloves. This is because if you touch your face after using gloves, the contamination goes from your glove to your face and therefore can infect you.

Make sure your face mask covers your mouth and nose

If you choose to wear a face mask, make sure it covers your mouth and nose and not one or the other. Also avoid touching the mask

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Your hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses easily. If you touch your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands, then the virus can be transferred. It can then enter the body and make you sick.

Cough or sneeze into a tissue where possible

If you do not have a tissue then the next best alternative is to use your elbow, but do not cough or sneeze into your hands. The clothing you cough onto could contain the virus, which can be passed to others for up to a week afterwards.

Avoid travel if you have a fever and cough

The WHO has said anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 should not travel.