Over the last couple of days, many new buzzwords have been flooding our news channels. One of the most frequently used phrases is social distancing.
So, what does social distancing mean? And why is it so important for everyone to do right now? We are here to answer your questions.
What is social distancing?
Social distancing is the primary way to stop the spread of COVID-19 to others.
The main way COVID-19 is spread is through person-to-person contact. This means in crowded areas, coronavirus can easily be passed from an infected individual to a healthy individual through respiratory droplets that are inhaled.
The definition of social distancing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is remaining out of group settings and avoiding mass gatherings. Maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others when possible is a critical part of social distancing as well.
Why is social distancing so important?
When we practice social distancing, we keep healthy people and those who are sick from coming into close contact with one another. This lessens the likelihood of the virus being transferred from person to person and slows the spread of COVID-19. It also allows hospitals to be able to care for sick individuals without becoming overwhelmed.
Social distancing is being practiced in many ways in our communities. They include:
- Schools/colleges closing and switching to online classes
- Offices asking employees to work remotely from home and have meetings virtually
- Large events like concerts or parades being cancelled or postponed until further notice
- Places of worship/churches pausing in-person services and events
Right now, it is everyone’s responsibility, including those who are healthy, to practice social distancing. Please make every effort to avoid travel and remain at home.
What to do when you’re stuck at home
Staying at home and practicing social distancing means you’re doing your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19. But, with many social activities cancelled and local businesses closed, it’s easy to feel isolated.
Here are some ways to keep busy and stay connected with others while at home.
- Keep a routine. Keep a routine at home that is similar to your normal schedule. Start your day by washing your face or showering, getting dressed and eating breakfast. If you’re working from home, be sure to work from a designated space in the house that is not your bed. Taking scheduled breaks throughout your day and finding a regular stopping point at the end of each day are important too. All of this will help things feel more normal.
- Check things off your to-do list. This could include cleaning around the house, writing thank-you cards, organizing personal paperwork, or getting to those around-the-house projects.
- Stay active while at home. There are so many ways to work out at home thanks to the internet. Find a fitness class online and follow along. You can head outside for a walk or a hike too, as long as you can maintain a safe social distance from others.
- Keep in touch with other people who may be feeling disconnected too. Call a grandparent or relative you haven’t talked to in a while. Use video calls to feel more present when reaching out to friends or your family.
- Make time for self-improvement and care. Read up on something you’re interested in. Learn something new, like a language or a skill. Take time to meditate or practice mindfulness each day. All of this will help keep your mind feeling refreshed and sharp.
Stay updated on what Bon Secours is doing related to COVID-19.
