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Social Distancing

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A term we’re hearing a lot now is “Social Distancing.” It’s being recommended by public health officials, the medical community and leaders across the U.S. Social distancing isn’t quarantine. Instead, it is putting common sense into practice by deliberately increasing physical space between yourself and others.

Social distancing is a necessary step everyone should take to help reduce the spread of viruses, such as Covid-19. Social distancing includes:

  • Working from home if this is an option

  • Avoiding crowds

  • Visiting friends and families electronically, through vehicles like Skype, Facetime, Facebook Messenger, Google Duo, etc.

  • Maintaining a six-foot distance between yourself and others.

  • Attending church services online if possible.

  • Limiting or postponing travel.

  • Canceling or postponing events and gatherings. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that any event expected to attract 50 people or more be canceled or postponed, at least through May 15.

In addition:

  • Order groceries from a delivery service or shop online, especially for those who are at high risk.

  • Reduce the number of trips to the grocery by making a list and purchasing all needed items during one trip. Time trips so when stores are least busy. Consider using grocery delivery and/or pickup options where available.

  • Use drive throughs and/or curbside pickup options at restaurants

  • If a store is busy/there are long lines, return at another time.

  • If visiting a physician or other provider, call ahead to check wait times. Consider postponing non-urgent visits. If you are ill and need to be seen, call ahead for special instructions.

  • At home, if you are sick, sleep in a separate room and, if possible, use separate restroom facilities. If this is not an option, thoroughly disinfect the restroom after each use.

  • Don’t share cups, straws, bottles, utensils, etc.

  • Be sure to get plenty of fresh air. As it warms up, open windows.

  • Shop for elderly neighbors.

  • Buy gift cards from local businesses to help support them through this period.

Remember to practice good hand washing techniques, using soap and water continuously for at least 20 seconds. This is the single most important thing you can do to reduce the spread of all infections.