What is Social Distancing

We are not experts on health or public safety, we simply want to help you stay as informed as possible. Therefore, we have referenced other sources to provide you with the most accurate information. 

In Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker has prohibited gatherings of 10 people or more and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended against any gatherings of 50 or more people over the next eight weeks. Leaving many of us wondering… what exactly does that mean?

Simply put, the idea is to maintain a distance between you and other people — specifically at least six feet.

Why?

The ultimate goal is to minimize stress to our health care systems while keeping everyone as healthy as possible.  “Every single reduction in the number of contacts you have per day with relatives, with friends, co-workers, in school will have a significant impact on the ability of the virus to spread in the population,” – NY Times

How?

Again the simplest answer is, please stay home. Even if you are young, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Stay home!

Can I leave my house?

Yes. It’s okay to go outside for fresh air and exercise because the point is not to remain indoors, but to avoid being in close contact with people. You may also need to leave the house for medicines, groceries and/or other essential resources.

How Does Social Distancing Differ From Self-Monitoring?

“Self-monitoring might include regularly checking your temperature and watching for signs of a respiratory illness, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition to maintaining distance between you and other people.

How Does Social Distancing Differ from Self Quarantine?

Self quarantining is recommended if you have been exposed to the virus in a way that puts you at “high risk” of being sick or exposing others to the virus. This means staying home and away from other people as much as possible for that 14-day period while you self-monitor.

Everyone at this time should be practicing social distancing regardless of age, current health or exposure. For more information about what to do if you become sick, please visit here!