by digitalseriesCOVID-19: Physical Distancing vs. Social Distancing | digitalseries Agency
The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), a pandemic, is one of the world’s most rapidly transmitting viruses, after the Spanish Flu (1918-1920), has infected many people around worldwide. Countries around the world have aimed at slowing down the transmission of this virus through various preventive measures such as “social distancing”, ending mass gatherings, closing public spaces like pubs and clubs to schools closures and in some places a total lockdown with people forced to stay indoors until the virus is contained in the local region.
Arindam Basu, associate professor of epidemiology and environmental health at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand says, “Social distancing refers to a way of creating a barrier of physical distance between two or more people so that transmission of the virus can be prevented.” At this time of the pandemic, there is no safe and effective vaccine available and thus, to eliminate the COVID-19 infection, the best way is the prevention of transmission. However, social distancing is a misnomer while we must maintain physical distancing, as being in isolation; one can have adverse effects on his/her mental health—the more prolonged periods of quarantine can increase negative emotions like anxiety, confusion, and anger.
The WHO epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove has recently said, “We want to term it as ‘physical distance,’ and that’s on purpose because we want people to remain connected.” The idea is to convey that during the current COVID-19 outbreak, it isn’t about breaking relationships or contacts with friends and family but rather maintaining a physical distance to prevent the transmission of the virus. In the period of isolation, social solidarity is the key to get people to comply with public health recommendations.
digitalseries, digital agency in Chandigarh, have listed below three ways by which being you can be socially connected while maintaining a physical distance.
1. Consistent Messaging: You can communicate with your loved ones by messaging them through phones while maintaining a physical distance.
2. Social Connectedness: Social media platforms and various messaging apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and Whatsapp have allowed us to connect socially while sitting at home or during the quarantine period.
3. Video Calling: Digital communication apps like Skype and Zoom have provided us with a way to connect virtually through video calling.
digitalseries, the best digital marketing company in Chandigarh, believes that maintaining physical distance is crucial. Still, it is equally important that we maintain social connectivity during this unprecedented time for better mental health and living a happier and healthier life.