'Social Distancing': What It Is and What It Is Not

The expression "social distancing" has been in the news recently in reference to the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. If you haven't heard it yet, you will. The phrase is becoming popular after the World Health Organization classified the coronavirus as a pandemic. Then health officials suggested limiting the spread of the disease by using the "social distancing" method. So, what exactly is "social distancing" that is also known as SD?

Social Distancing

Epidemiologists are using the term social distancing to refer to a conscious effort to reduce close contact between people. Social distancing is just one way to avoid being infected with any virus.

Social distancing is the measure people are taking by giving others some space in an attempt to minimize getting sick. That involves staying away from large gatherings. It means not going to events and outings you used to attend. In a lot of cases, it means working from home as well as distancing yourself from family members and friends. It definitely means greeting people with bows, smiles, and waves instead of handshakes, hugs, and kisses.

Viruses, and not just COVID-19, are spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets. Therefore, maintaining a distance from those who are already sick is key. That means staying away from crowded spaces and large public gatherings. It also means maintaining a distance of three to six feet from other people. The main goal of social distancing is to minimize physical contact with others.

Does Social Distancing Work?

Public health officials who came up with the term are confident that social distancing can minimize the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses. Social distancing works because it keep people from spreading the virus through personal contact.

When social distancing is implemented, people are not in close proximity to those who are coughing, sneezing and blowing their nose. They stay clear of infected people and avoid touching surfaces that might have been contaminated by someone who is infected.

Nothing New

Most people have heard and agree that there is nothing new under the sun. That includes social distancing because that is not a new method. Actually, social distancing dates back to the seventh century BC. According to Leviticus 13:46, "And the leper in whom the plague is shall dwell alone; outside the camp shall his habitation be." That is indeed a clear case of social distancing.

Disadvantages of Social Distancing

People love to be in contact with others, and when they cannot be with others, they feel the pain and discomfort of being isolated. That's why being alone without human contact is a punishment for those who are put in solitary confinement when they misbehave while already serving time in prison. Been confined to a small space without interacting with others can weaken a person's spirit if he is not strong enough to survive the isolation.

Social distancing means giving up things you like for the time being. You don't have to ponder about the measure in some venues because singers like Mariah Carey to Miley Cyrus are calling off concerts. Movie premieres have been postponed. Some employers have ordered their employees to work from home. Schools and colleges are suspending classes. Some churches are replacing physical worship services with digitally streaming services online.

Those who usually go to the gym every day are exercising at home to make sure they are not around people and equipment that might not be safe. It is better to postpone your regular routine until COVID-19 is contained.

Advantages of Social Distancing

Social distancing doesn't have to be a bad thing. Usually, it is a temporary measure. People can stave off boredom by being creative. They can complete projects around the house they started but didn't have time to finish. They can always read more whether it is a novel or some passages from their Bible.

Social distancing is mainly staying away from large crowds, but it doesn't mean that you can't be with a friend or two from time to time. While you are with that friend, you can keep your distance.

Remember that social distancing is different from self-isolation and self-quarantine. Social distancing is going out while keeping your distance from others. Self-isolation and self-quarantine mean staying home away from others. Choose what's best for you and the safety of others.