Social distancing in fight against COVID 19

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, March 26, 2020

The fight against the deadly Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues with the implementation of much needed precautionary measures.

Officials from the World Health (WHO) have continually emphasised the need for people around the world to practice social distancing.

Social distancing or physical distancing are certain actions taken by Public Health officials to stop person-to-person transmission of a highly contagious disease in this case COVID-19. It also helps to slow down the spread of the virus and reduce the intensity of the epidemic.

A person infected with the COVID-19 is said to be able to pass it on to an average 2-3 other people in the early stages. Therefore, health scientists around the world are advocating for the gathering of no more than 10 persons at any one time.

Cancelling events that are likely to draw crowds is an example of social distancing. It is aimed at increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Staying at least six feet away from other people lessens one’s chances of catching COVID-19.

Other examples of social distancing which allow persons to avoid larger crowds or crowded spaces include:

• • Working from home instead of the office
  • Closing schools and switching to online classes
  • Communicating with relatives and friends by electronic devices instead of in person
  • Cancelling or postponing conferences and large meetings

• • Online banking and other financial transactions instead of visiting banks, or business places.

Social distancing benefits all, however, older persons and those with recurring medical conditions such as respiratory illness, heart disease and diabetes should be especially mindful about practising social distancing

The act of distancing ourselves remains the most important factor that can control the outbreak. It is essentially buying time until a vaccine can be found.