With the spread of COVID-19, many governments have implemented quarantine, or have insisted on social distancing. Now that’s a pretty term, and can be very misleading when not properly explained. Social distancing aims to separate everyone enough that infections wouldn’t spread rapidly. The Huffington Post answers some questions that can further explain the concept:
1. Is it OK to take domestic flights?
International travel is pretty much off the table right now, but what if you need to fly domestically for work or personal reasons? Deciding whether or not to go is best approached by asking yourself a few questions, according to Pamela Aaltonen, professor emerita of nursing at Purdue University and past president of the American Public Health Association.
If it’s reasonable to use an alternative means of traveling, such as by car, that would be the preferred option. And if you’re part of a high-risk group ― you’re older in age and/or have a compromised immune system ― or the party you’re traveling to includes a high-risk individual that you don’t want to potentially expose, it’s probably best to call off the trip.
If you must travel, Aaltonen says you should wipe down arm rests, seat back tables, light switches and vent knobs before touching them.
2. Should I stop using public transportation?
If your employer hasn’t instituted a work-from-home policy or you need to get around town to run errands, transportation can be another tricky situation. Public transportation exposes you to many people and germs. But for many people, there is no other option.
“Try to keep as much distance from one another as you can,” Aaltonen said, noting 6 to 10 feet is ideal. It also helps to travel at non-peak hours, if possible. “Minimize touching surfaces on public transportation,” she added. “Carry wipes or hand sanitizer if available (these are in short supply in many areas of the country) and use on frequently touched surfaces if you, too, are going to touch these surfaces.”
And though it might be a tough habit to break, Aaltonen said you shouldn’t shake hands or hug anyone you know along the way.
3. Is it safe to go to the grocery store or pharmacy?
Benjamin said this is a risk-based decision. If you need food or medication, there’s really no getting around it.
However, if you’re over the age of 60 or are immunocompromised, consider having someone run these types of errands for you.
If that’s not a possibility (and you are not under isolation or quarantine, of course), try to go during off-peak hours when fewer people are around.
image via wikimedia commons
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