Whilst it is perfectly understandable that so many of you are frustrated and want things to go back to normal, it is essential that we all understand the importance of doing so in the right way. As many countries begin to ease their lockdown restrictions, the probability of things getting back to something close to normal depends on our behaviors. Many in the medical community like the wonderful Lisa M Cannon MD have been quick to stress the responsibility which we have on our shoulders as we begin to get back to where we were before. This is why it is going to be so important.
Social Distancing
We know that the virus can be passed on from surfaces but in recent weeks we have learned that this is in fact the less common way in which it is passed on. The virus generally is being passed through air droplets, and that is of course what comes from our breath or when we cough or sneeze. It is abundantly clear that social distancing is the best way in which we can prevent ourselves from getting the virus and the best way in which we can prevent the further spread of the virus. Staying at least 6 feet or 3 meters away from people when you re out is the best way to ensure a safe distance.
Mask Wearing
The jury is still out as to whether or not masks do help us to avoid giving or getting the virus, but in the main it would appear that this is going to be something which helps. Until proven otherwise it is a smart move to hedge our bets on mask wearing and to ensure that at the very least we wear them when we are indoors with strangers.
Hand Washing
One good thing which will hopefully come from this pandemic is that moving forward there will be many more of us who are regularly washing our hands. Even prior to the pandemic this was something which more of us should have been doing as it does prevent the spread of viruses and reduces our own risk of infections from bacteria. We must continue to keep washing our hands and we should also look to be trying to avoid touching our faces if we are out and about. It is true that touching surfaces can continue the spread of the disease, even if it is the less likely way in which this will happen. Nonetheless we should respect the stats and make sure that we are doing all that we can to stay healthy.
The key is to keep on making sure that we are safe and that we are working on keeping those around us safe as well. If we are able to do this then we can get back to that normal life which we have all been dreaming of for the past few months. Stay safe and we’ll get there together.