As the impact of COVID-19 continues, social distancing has become a topic of great concern. Social distancing is not only an important measure to provention and control the epidemic, but also an effective strategy to maintain the health of individuals and groups. This article will discuss the definition of social distancing, how to effectively implement social distancing, and how to maintain a safe way of gathering in daily life and social activities to prevent the spread of infection.
I. Definition
of social distance
Social distancing refers to maintaining a physical space between people to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Specifically, this distance is usually recommended to be between 1 and 2 meters, depending on the transmission characteristics of different diseases and the guidance of health institutions. During the outbreak, the implementation of social distancing aims to reduce the probability of virus transmission in the air through droplets, aerosols and other means.
2. The importance
of social distance
Reduce the risk
of transmission
Social distancing is an effective means of preventing airborne diseases, especially in closed, poorly ventilated spaces. By keeping a proper distance, the chance of contact with infected persons can be effectively reduced.
Protection of high-risk population
Social distancing measures are particularly important to protect high-risk groups such as the elderly and people with chronic diseases. By reducing their contact with the outside world, they can effectively reduce their risk of infection.
Relieving the pressure on
the medical system
By implementing social distancing, we can reduce the growth of infection cases, thereby reducing the pressure on the health care system and ensuring that health care resources can provide treatment for patient in critical condition.
3. Implementing social distance
in daily life
In public places
When in supermarkets, shopping malls or other public places, be sure to keep a distance from others. Try to avoid crowded places and choose less crowded time to shop or do business.
When queuing, follow the signs of social distance to ensure that there is enough distance from the front and back customers.
At a social event
Choose outdoor activities and parties
as far as possible. The outdoor environment is well ventilated and relatively safe. When gathering indoors, make sure the space is large enough to keep people away from each other.
In social situations, reduce physical contact and avoid high-contact forms of address such as hugging and shaking hands, which can be replaced by smiling or waving.
In the work environment
Try to maintain social distance
in the office, especially in meetings, and avoid sitting in close proximity. Video conferencing software can be used instead of face-to-face meetings.
Avoid gathering in the break room or dining room, and don’t share food with co-workers to reduce potential cross infection.
4. Maintain a safe way
of gathering
Set clear rules
of action
When organizing a family gathering or a dinner with friends, set the rules of the event in advance. For example, limit the number of participants and make sure that everyone agrees and understands the rules to keep everyone safe.
Use online tools
In the event of a gathering of friends and family, consider using video conferencing or online gathering tools such as Zoom, Skype, etc. In this way, we can not only keep in touch, but also avoid the risks of direct contact.
Pay attention to personal hygiene
Before
social activities, you should wash your hands frequently or use hand disinfectant to maintain good hygiene habits. It is suggested to set up a disinfection station in the party to facilitate regular cleaning of hands.
If someone feels unwell, whether it is a slight cough, fever, or other symptoms, they should inform the participants in advance and voluntarily cancel their participation in the party.
Site selection
Give priority to a place with large space and good ventilation for gathering. If conditions permit, try to choose outdoor spaces, such as parks and courtyards, to reduce the concentration of pathogens in the air.
5. Psychological adaptation
of social distance
While social distancing is essential to protect our physical health, it can also create feelings of loneliness or anxiety for some. Here are some suggestions to ease the psychological burden:
Find alternative ways
to socialize
Through telephone, video chat and other forms, keep in touch with relatives and friends, share the dribs and drabs of life, and embrace another form of social interaction.
Maintain an active lifestyle
Participate in online courses, reading, sports, etc. To improve your mental health and quality of life. In this way, we can not only enrich our lives, but also maintain a good psychological state.
Pay attention to mental health
If you feel lonely or anxious, seek psychological support in time. Many agencies offer online counseling services where professionals can help you find effective strategies for dealing with your emotions.
End
In the current public health situation, social distancing measures are essential to protect the health of individuals and others. By properly implementing social distancing and developing good personal hygiene habits, we can effectively reduce the risk of infection transmission. At the same time, by living an active lifestyle and socializing, we can also maintain the connection between people while keeping healthy. Let us work together to use scientific methods to protect our health and the health of others, and to usher in a better future.
