Social distancing is more than a buzzword or meme, it’s a strategy for minimizing the effects of COVID-19. For many people, it means the end of sporting events, concerts, and even work, but there is a lot more involved.
What is Social Distancing?
Social distancing is the act of putting space between yourself and other people to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Many businesses and schools shut down and switched to online or virtual work. You should also avoid congregating with others and give ample space when taking advantage of outdoor venues, like parks and hiking trails.
The Importance of Social Distancing
How COVID-19 Spreads
Like other viruses, COVID-19 is transmitted from person to person. If a person who is infected coughs or sneezes, droplets enter the air and can be inhaled or land on another person. It is possible to carry COVID-19 without having symptoms.
Flattening the Curve
Flattening the curve is another popular phrase to emerge during this pandemic. When too many people contract the virus and become ill at the same time, they can overwhelm the hospitals. Unfortunately, when this happens, the hospitals don’t have enough resources to treat all of the sick people.
By practicing social distancing, we can reduce the spread of the virus and limit the number of sick people who need hospital care at one time. Hospitals can then stretch their resources and treat everybody effectively.
Tips for Practicing Social Distancing
Social distancing can be tough, especially when you need groceries or exercise. It’s impossible to maintain a perfect six feet at all times, so do the best you can. The goal is to minimize the risk.
- Work from home if possible.
- Go to the grocery store when it’s less crowded.
- At the grocery store, wipe down the cart or basket you use with wipes or hand sanitizer and don’t touch your face while shopping.
- Get outside for exercise but maintain your distance from others.
- Communicate with family and friends over the phone and through video chat.
- If you want to eat out, order take-out or have the food delivered.
- Avoid social gatherings or suggest virtual hangouts with friends.
How to Prevent Coronavirus
- Wash your hands
- Avoid touching your face
- Decontaminate your home
- Stay home
What to Do in a Dental Emergency?
Accidents happen at any time, even in the middle of a pandemic. In the event you experience a dental emergency, don’t go to an emergency room as they are likely overwhelmed by patients with COVID-19. Additionally, Emergency Rooms will be unlikely to treat your ailment effectively given limited dental experience and the absence of proper equipment.
Jefferson Dental and Orthodontics has a select number of open offices to handle dental emergencies. We are here to help you, so if you have a dental emergency, contact one of our offices to make an appointment.
