What Does Social Distancing Mean? (See How It Checks The Spread of COVID-19)

In the current wave of the coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health have activated a national covid-19 emergency operation led by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Contol (NCDC). The NCDC and other public health bodies have advised for the need of citizens to self isolate themselves, maintain physical distancing, and also maintain personal hygiene to help prevent the spread of the disease.

In this piece we will be looking at what social distancing means and how effective it is in curtailing the spread of COVID-19.

WHAT IS SOCIAL DISTANCING?

Social distancing is an effective measure that can be used to reduce physical interaction between people. Therefore, Social distancing is a strategy that can be used to effectively reduce the spread of COVID-19 in a community.

Social distancing involves:

  1. Maintaining at least 2 metres (5 feet) physical distance between yourself and individuals.
  2. Non-contact greetings (avoiding shaking of hands and hugs).
  3. Closure of activities that will cause any form of gathering including schools, houses of worship, and social events.

All individuals are hence advised to follow these preventive measures of social distancing while the peril lasts.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE SPREAD OF COVID-19?

Social distancing is a very effective way to reduce and apparently stop the spread of coronavirus. This is because on this physical distancing is kept, there will be no way an individual will have contact with an infected person. However for this strategy to be fully effective in curbing the spread of this virus, everyone of us needs to adhere to the other instructions set by various public health bodies and the Government.

These include:

  1. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser if no water and soap is available.
  2. Maintain at least 2 metres (5 feet) physical distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
  3. Persons with a persistent cough or sneezing, should also stay at home until they recover.
  4. Stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing. Immediately call NCDC’s 24/7 toll-free number 0800 970 000 0010. Do not self-medicate.
  5. Obey national and state directives requesting the cancellation and avoidance of large gatherings, including places of worship, social and sporting events.
  6. Avoid crowded spaces such as open markets, crowded supermarkets and pharmacies.

Hope you had a good read. Remember to stay safe & avoid large gatherings.

N:B This information is intended to serve as a resource for our community and detail how Legit9ja is prepared to treat the Coronavirus and protect patients, the public and our caregivers.

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