Please note: Social distancing protocols are rapidly changing. Please refer to the for updated and accurate measures on how best to social distance.Ìý
As you may know, there is a virus going around: novel coronavirus or COVID-19.
The virus has turned into a pandemic and despite how scary it may seem, the best way to prevent getting the disease is by doing these five things: washing your hands often; coughing and sneezing into your elbow; not touching your face; staying home; and most importantly, keeping your distance from others, a.k.a. social distancing.Ìý
You’ve probably heard “social distancing” once or twice (or maybe a few hundred times), but we want to make sure you know more on how to effectively social distance and what to do if you’re feeling ill.
Social Distancing
Tip number one: don’t gather with others. State and local governments have already taken steps to cancel many gatherings and event and ensure everyone stays home, but it’s up to us to make sure to follow those guidelines and keep our interaction to the people we live with.Ìý
While gatherings aren’t possible now, that doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected. Go virtual, and get creative! We recommend something along the lines of having anÌýÌýor messing around with backgrounds onÌý.ÌýCheck out from to spark your creativity. We know it’s not ideal, but it’s still best to keep hangouts virtual to keep everyone safe.Ìý
Other social distancing tips include keeping at least a six foot distance from others and using your best judgement when going to essential businesses or places that may be crowded. If possible, , try to go at off-peak times and have a plan B.
Besides social distancing things, doctors and nurses are working everyÌýday to make sure everyone is healthy. One of the best ways to help them is maintaining social distanceÌýprotocols. Another way is reserving surgical masks or N95 respirators for the medical professionals who need them the most.Ìý
Feeling Ill
If you are sick or feeling ill, self-isolate and call your primary care doctor or your local county/state health department. If you’re still on campus, the Barnes Center at The Arch is available by calling 315.443.8000.ÌýEven if you show no symptoms, it is best to stay away from others. Going out, even without symptoms, can still spread illness and affect different people. While one person may not exhibit any symptoms, another person, such as an elderly person or someoneÌýwith an underlying health condition, can become critically ill. Better safe than sorry!Ìý
If you’re sick, youÌýcanÌýstill maintain contact with friends and family over text, Facetime or Zoom,Ìýbut physically isolate yourself and tryÌýto stay in your house for the duration that you are ill. Once youÌýare cleared by a medical professional, you can go outÌýof isolation and do things like go into your backyard to soak up spring sunshine, but continue to practice social distancing.Ìý
Take care of yourselves and check in with each other!
Written by Christopher Scarglato ’23, S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications