The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed life in India and many other countries. As a result of this, governments around the world are taking preventive measures, causing people to alter their lifestyles.
Italy has been the most-affected country outside Asia. It has recorded the highest number of deaths due to COVID-19 in the world and is currently under complete lockdown. The root cause of COVID-19 spread has been traced back to Italy and Italians travelling to other countries during the outbreak. Additionally, China witnessed approximately 74% of the global coronavirus cases as of 9th March, and this number quickly came down to 40% by 18th March. This is because of the rapid control measures and response by the Chinese government.
This contrast between the two countries signifies the importance of the timely introduction of effective prevention measures. Countries around the world are adopting sweeping measures like shutting down airports, imposing travel restrictions, and sealing their borders to prevent further spread.
Read on to learn about the importance of social distancing and how it is our best hope against COVID-19.
Why has the government laid importance on social distancing?
World experts have unanimously agreed that strict social distancing policies are the most potent weapons to fight the spread of this pandemic. The absence of a vaccine means we must adopt preventive measures like social distance to contain the damage being caused.
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On 22nd March 2020, India embraced the idea of social distancing by practicing the Janta Curfew. Public transport was suspended or worked at minimum capacity only for emergency services, and airline operations were also suspended. Additionally, many trains have also been cancelled to support this curfew.
The streets all over India bore an empty look, and the constant hum of traffic was replaced with the sound of birds chirping.
Image Source: Hindustan Times
The Janta Curfew can be looked at like a mock session for the next couple of weeks. Social distancing is our go-to preventive measure against COVID-19, and by religiously taking part, we can stem the spread.
What is Self-Quarantine?
Self-Quarantine or social distancing refers to avoiding physical interactions and staying away from crowded places. This does not mean you can stay home and invite your friends over; it is strongly advised to surround yourself with the least number of people.
It is the need of the hour, dropping these measures and allowing people to gather in big groups again can start new outbreaks that gravely threaten public health. Only step out when it is absolutely necessary and always take the required safety measures.
Older and chronically ill people, those most vulnerable to severe illness, need to stay quarantined at home because the virus poses a higher risk to them.
In times like these, instructions from government agencies and the WHO cannot be taken lightly. To play our part in eradicating this pandemic, we must strictly abide by the policies of social distancing for the next couple of weeks, at least.
Make sure you go through the Dos and Don’ts of social distancing.
Don’ts:
- Avoid all social gatherings for the next couple of weeks
- Invite friends and family and stay in large groups
- Use public transport, if it is an emergency, travel in your own vehicle or a cab
- Panic buy supplies
- Spread false information and believe news from unreliable sources
- Assume that someone is not infected just because they are not showing symptoms. It can take up to 14 days for an infected person to show signs
- Avoid visiting older adults because they can be easily affected
Dos:
- Practice social distancing as much as possible
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, even if you're just staying at home
- Eat healthy and well-cooked meals; avoid unhygienic food joints
- Maintain a 6ft distance whenever possible
- Keep your home stocked with supplies to last for couple of days, so you don't have to keep going outside for groceries
- Keep yourself updated on the current situation through reputed sources like the WHO
- If you’ve just returned from a trip abroad, quarantine yourself for 14 days as suggested by the government
Keep your loved ones and yourself safe by imposing self-quarantine. The best way to beat COVID-19 is by staying at home and practicing effective health care measures. The number of positive cases has been on the rise, and as responsible citizens, we must remain at home and support the decision made by the WHO and our government.
