Is 'social distancing' the key to stop coronavirus?

Measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus are underway with schools closed, sports events canceled and business conferences postponed. These measures, considered "social distancing," may be key in containing the spread of the coronavirus.

This is how we all help slow the spread of coronavirus.

What Does 'Social Distancing' Mean?

Social distancing is a term applied to certain nonpharmaceutical infection control actions taken by public health officials to stop or slow down the spread of a highly contagious disease. Source: Wikipedia

Most recently, it’s been referenced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as one of the best strategies in preventing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19)

The CDC defines social distancing as "remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet) from others when possible."2 It is less drastic than quarantine or isolation, which are used for people who are suspected to be carrying the virus.

While some people may find social distancing to be a big relief—canceling business-related travel to a conference may give someone peace of mind—others find it to be a major inconvenience. Many concerts and public gatherings have been canceled due to the recommendations about social distancing.

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Why is it recommended?

According to the CDC, coronavirus is spread mainly through person-to-person contact. It’s believed that people who are in close contact (within 6 feet of one another) are most likely to spread it. It spreads through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.3

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of anyone nearby and may be inhaled into the lungs, which can spread the disease.

It may also be possible to contract COVID-19 through contaminated surfaces or objects. An individual who touches a surface that has the virus on it and then touches their own mouth or nose, for example, may contract the virus.

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The CDC believes COVID-19 spreads easily throughout communities. So they have recommended social distancing as a way to help stop the spread.

If individuals reduce their contact with one another, people will be less likely to pass the virus on. This can be the best way to prevent what they refer to as “community spread."

How Does Social Distancing Help During a Pandemic?

A 2010 study published in BioMed Central (BMC) Public Health4 assessed whether social distancing is effective in slowing or reducing the transmission of influenza during an outbreak. Researchers found that workplace social distancing reduced the number of overall flu cases.

However, the study also discovered that the success rate was greater in areas where people practiced other preventative measures, such as more frequent handwashing and other strategies to keep their immune systems strong.

So while social distancing may be an important factor in preventing the spread of coronavirus, practicing good hygiene and taking other safety precautions may also be important steps in preventing the spread.

READ: Tips on how to avoid viral infections (without the need of alcohol or mask)

To Dos

Opt for online meetings rather than workplace gatherings whenever possible.
Work from home if you can.
Postpone major social gatherings.
Consider video-chatting with friends and family rather than meeting in public places.
Limit or postpone air travel and cruise ship travel.
Stock up on vital items so you don’t have to go to stores as often.
Order groceries from a delivery service.
Shop online rather than in stores.

Staying Calm and Positive

Staying calm during a pandemic can seem impossible. But, managing your stress and anxiety in a healthy way is important so you can make the best decisions possible.

While social distancing may seem like a drastic step to take, it’s just a precautionary measure. And if you’re practicing it, there’s still a good chance you are healthy. Otherwise, you may be placed into a quarantine situation.

WHAT TO READ NEXT?

This article is written up in support to spread awareness for COVID-19 cases in the Philippines.