Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is the responsibility of each individual. The way to assure that the virus doesn’t spread is for individuals and businesses to do their part.
This global pandemic is unprecedented, with a cure estimated to arrive in about 18 months. This virus can’t be eliminated at the moment but it can be slowed down with world-wide and local cooperation.
So, how can you do your part? Are you doing your best to follow CDC isolation guidelines, but you aren’t sure what they are? Read this article for a simple guide to understanding isolation.
What Is Social Distancing?
Social distancing or physical distancing is when individuals keep physical space away from others when in public. This entails staying a minimum of 6 feet apart from other people, not being in large groups of people, and avoiding large gatherings and places that are crowded.
This is an effective way of spreading the virus because people can be infected by respiratory droplets that are released when people speak, sneeze, and cough. People who are infected sometimes never show symptoms themselves but can continue to spread the virus.
The goal here is to slow down the spread of the virus. Social distancing from people who think they don’t have the virus is still necessary because people infected with the virus often don’t show symptoms until days later.
Social distancing should be a priority for all, especially those with high risks of developing health complications when contracting the virus.
When people do their part, we can flatten the curve of new COVID-19 cases. This is when the number of new cases is low enough to lessen the impact on hospitals and assure that we have enough supplies and staff to treat those who are infected.
Steps You Can Take to Social Distance Effectively
Apart from following the 6 feet rule and not going to crowded places, you can also do the following:
- Buy as much as you can online, yes, even groceries
- Work from home if your employer allows it
- Make sure to reschedule social gatherings
- Opt for video calling instead of face to face contact with friends and family
- Cancel and avoid all non-essential travel
- Cover your mouth and nose with a face mask or cloth when in public
- Avoid using public transportation, if possible
Following these steps is the responsibility of socially conscious and empathetic individuals who want to protect those amongst us that are immunocompromised, older, sick, and young.
Read more here about the importance of wearing face masks and social distancing.
What Is Self-Quarantine?
For people who suspect or know that they have been exposed to the Coronavirus, it is recommended that they practice self-quarantine. This is quarantine should last about 14 days to allow time to pass to see if you become ill.
When you self-quarantine you should be staying 6 feet away from people in your home, washing your hands often, staying at home, not sharing things like silverware, cups, dishes, and towels.
If you suspect that you could be infected make sure to use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and immediately throw it away and immediately. Immediately wash your hands after coughing and sneezing for 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol.
If someone in your home starts to exhibit symptoms of COVID-19, the individual should stay confined to one room in the house and use a separate bathroom all together if possible.
If you begin to feel unwell it is best to call health care providers first instead of going to crowded emergency rooms or doctors’ offices where you are likely to infect others.
If sharing the household with someone who could be infected, make sure to disinfect doorknobs, TV remotes, and anything that is frequently touched in the home.
What Is Isolation?
Isolation is for people who have been confirmed to have the Coronavirus or those who have symptoms. Self-isolation must begin the moment the symptoms start and up to a week after. Self-isolation can be extended past a week as long as you have a high temperature.
Isolation can be under medical care or done at home. Most people who contract the Coronavirus have mild symptoms and can usually recover at home. If you live in a home with other people and you are infected with the virus they should isolate for 14 days and follow the self-quarantine rules.
Individuals who are infected should only leave their homes if they require medical attention. They should also only leave their homes after they have been tested for the virus and the results come out negative.
Let’s Follow CDC Isolation Guidelines to Slow Down the Spread of COVID-19
Although it is saddening that all major music festivals, events, weddings, birthday parties, and social events are canceled or postponed due to the virus we must realize that these cancelations are all for keeping others safe.
Individuals and businesses enforcing social distancing are crucial for the containment of COVID-19.
Social distancing can get a bit boring at times so make sure to find ways to stay entertained. Learning a new skill, catching up on tv shows you’ve been trying to find the time to watch, and staying active are only some of the things you can do to make sure you’re staying busy.
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