What Is Social Distancing?

In the context of a virus, social distancing means limiting physical interaction with other individuals, whether ill or well. A virus can spread through coughs and sneezes, which can project to about six feet from the person coughing, but also by touch. 

To limit the potential spread of disease:

• Avoid large gatherings. It’s impossible for you to know whether another attendee is ill.
• Use fist bumps or elbow bumps instead of shaking hands or hugging.
• Don’t share drinks or food.
• Wash your hands! You have undoubtedly touched surfaces that others have touched before you, and the virus can live up to nine days on those surfaces.
• Use a paper towel or napkin when available to minimize handling of high-touch surfaces with your hands.
• Keep surfaces clean: this means doorknobs, counters, refrigerators, faucets, and anything that other people touch. 
•  Refrain from touching your face. This keeps your fingers away from your eyes/nose/mouth, which are the entry points for the virus. 
• Nonessential travel is not recommended, but if you must be on a plane/bus/train, be sure to wipe down the surfaces surrounding you, and bring hand sanitizer with you.

These methods will not only keep you healthy but will make it more difficult for a virus to spread to others.