I’m a bit of a health nut. Most of you who know me know by now that, beyond my career, I’m passionate about health and wellness — be it exercise, nutrition, or mental health. As our nation (and the world) confronts the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been exposed to the concept of “social distancing” and encouraged to limit how many people we come in contact with.
But how does this actually slow the spread of disease? And why does it matter?
Here are the facts: coronavirus is here. Even if the reported cases in your community are but a handful, we are now in mitigation mode. All we can do is insulate ourselves from risk.
What is Social Distancing?
First things first — what is social distancing? If you have ever been sick with a contagious condition, you have more likely than not already practiced it. Social distancing is precisely what it sounds like —- staying away from other people! Guidelines suggest limiting the number of people we come in contact with and how close we physically get to them. (In this case, it is suggested to get no more than six feet close to other individuals). We are not to go to large gatherings or to leave home unless it is necessary.
2 Big Reasons for Social Distancing During Pandemic
1) It protects the elderly and immune-suppressed.
For most of us, the coronavirus does not seem to pose any big threat. After all, it is flu-like in symptoms. It is far from a death sentence to contract it. This leads many to wonder why the message of social distancing has become so emphasized.
This is because we, as human beings, have not yet been exposed to this particular viral strain. As a result, we do not have any sort of natural immunity built up. That means that, among other things, the virus spreads very, very quickly.
While you might be fine if you contracted the virus, having it means that you are much more likely to spread it to someone else — someone who would not be fine. Immunocompromised individuals (such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with certain pre-existing conditions) and the elderly are not only particularly susceptible to the virus, but they are more likely to develop the complications that can be deadly.
By willingly distancing ourselves from others, we lower the risk of transmission, particularly among these at-risk groups of people.
2) It prevents an overburdened healthcare system.
Here’s the reality: our healthcare system has a limited capacity. Part of the reason for social distancing is to minimize the burden on healthcare in our country so that everyone who truly needs emergency care and services (such as ventilators) are able to receive them, along with quality care.
The more people that become sick, the greater the demand put on medical resources — doctors, nurses, hospital equipment, and medicine.
Social distancing helps keep medical capacities in check.
Other Measures to Take
Social distancing in and of itself goes a long way towards preventing the spread of disease. However, there are other steps we can take (regardless of social distancing) that can help prevent the spread of disease.
Wash Hands, Disinfect Surfaces
One of the biggest pieces of advice is to wash your hands. This is something we should be doing already, but it is even more important now. Use alcohol-based soaps and sanitizers to kill germs and bacteria. By the same token, take care to wipe down surfaces — particularly those used by multiple individuals — steering wheels, grocery cart handles, doorknobs, and the like.
We don’t always consider where germs lurk. If anything, now is the time to be safe rather than sorry.
Consume Immune-Boosting Foods and Supplements
Nutrition plays a vital role in our body’s ability to fight disease and infection. Don’t underestimate the power in a good diet! There are many foods that can boost your immune system. Chief among them are fresh, leafy greens and vegetables. Protein from nuts (such as almonds and sunflower seeds), eggs, and fatty fish are also known to boost the immune system.
There is also greek yogurt, probiotics, tea, citrus fruit, and certain spices (like turmeric) that can reinforce the immune system.
Don’t Touch Your Face
We touch our faces for more than we realize. Whether we’re scratching at an itch, rubbing tired eyes, or wiping our mouths, it often happens unconsciously. However, our hands are big germ carriers! The face contains some of the most sensitive areas of the body and those more vulnerable to germs and viruses: the nose, eyes, and mouth.
As much as possible, avoid touching your face. That, too, goes for your phone. Make sure you sanitize it as well! Phones are notorious germ-carriers.
What measures are you taking to keep yourself and your community healthy? Share your experience in the comments.