COVID-19, or the coronavirus, has been turning the world on its head. It has been destructive. You’re probably constantly bombarded by pandemic numbers every day, so this article won’t be focusing as much on the numbers. Instead, it will focus on what you can do to fight COVID-19—both to protect yourself and those around you.
Social Distancing
Social distancing is putting physical distance between you and others. This prevents unneeded contact between people so that if either party is infected with the virus, they will not spread it to the other.
Studies have shown that particulates (such as spit when somebody coughs) can fly up to six feet. That is why the recommended distance to stay apart is six feet. However, just because you are maintaining your physical distance does not mean you should not have any social interaction at all.
In fact, it’s more important than ever to continue talking to friends and doing things with other people. Get creative about things you can do with others online or at a distance. There are many social activities you can do while still maintaining your distance.
Mask Wearing
COVID-19 transmission is most likely to happen before symptoms appear. This means that you or others around you could be carrying the virus without you knowing. And that’s a little scary. How do people keep from getting others sick if they don’t know if they are sick?
That is why mask wearing is especially important, even when you are feeling well. Mask wearing can prevent you from spreading your germs to others, and it could even protect you. Please wear your mask whenever in public, especially if you are indoors or if keeping a six foot distance will be an issue.
Sanitation
Now is not the time to stop practicing good hygiene. It is time to wash your hands more than ever, clean surfaces frequently, wash your food properly and safely, clean your home and simply be a clean human. It may seem impossible to not touch your face. This is a way to combat that habit. Good cleaning practices help to kill the virus, and keeps the virus from staying anywhere long enough to get into your system. This is a great time to jump on that New Year’s Resolution to be a little cleaner.
COVID-19 is causing a lot of damage, but some of that damage extends beyond the disease itself. Don’t forget to take care of yourself in other ways. Eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, and spend time with your loved ones. People need you as much as you need them. Reach out, and you can pull through this. It isn’t the time to give up. It’s time to fight COVID-19.
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