To reduce the risk of infection or spread of COVID-19, members of the public are advised to keep social distance as efforts to control the virus , especially one as contagious as the novel coronavirus relies on knowing how it spreads.
Social distancing is a public health care practice that officials recommend during disease outbreaks.
The goal of social distancing is to keep people far enough away from each other to prevent the spread of infectious agents, such as viruses.
Social distancing can help stop the spread of viruses, reduce the danger to people most at risk of severe symptoms, and potentially lessen the strain on the health system.
The following are examples of social distancing:
Encouraging people to keep 6 feet away from others
Limiting the size of gatherings to no more than a fixed number of people
Canceling or postponing public festivals, parades, sporting events, and performances
Canceling face-to-face classes at colleges and universities
Closing schools, avoiding shaking hands and hugging, and staying at home as much as possible
Although research is limited and mainly model-based, some studies have found that social distancing does lead to a reduction in the rate of infection. However, delayed implementation and poor compliance can reduce its effectiveness.
Even if social distancing is effective in stopping the spread of disease, people can still experience negative emotional and psychological effects, such as increased stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
People can help counteract the potential side effects of social distancing by Seeking out information from credible sources and informing care providers, employers, and their personal support networks about their concerns.
Using technology to stay connected with friends and loved ones, including having video calls for “face-to-face” interactions and practicing relaxation techniques, such as physical exercise, yoga, meditation, or keeping a journal
ANTHONIA OBOKOH
Culled from Medical New Today
