During this uncertain time, it’s vital that we take certain precautions to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. There are many things we can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19: frequently wash our hands, cough into our elbows, avoid touching our faces, stay at home if we’re feeling sick, and social distance! It’s crucial that we practice social distancing because you never know who may have the illness. According to the CDC, social distancing means remaining out of “crowded settings” as much as possible, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining a distance of about 6 feet from others when possible. Social distancing is important for everyone, but those who have underlying health conditions are at higher risk of serious complications caused by COVID-19. The virus does not discriminate; people who are in their lower twenties are dying of this terrible illness as well as elderly people. The increasing reports of Covid-19 deaths among healthy, young patients should be a wake up call for everyone to take coronavirus more seriously.
Teenagers may be the downfall of preventing the spread of COVID-19. Many don’t grasp how something so simple as going on walks or hanging out in the park with their friends can put themselves, or anyone else, in danger. They may see bad things happen to other people, but they never think that those same bad things could happen to them. No matter how many people get sick, it’s difficult for them to comprehend that they could get sick too. With all the deaths being reported, the fact that teenagers are still violating social distancing rules is unacceptable. They need to understand that social distancing is our best defense against spreading disease. It's important to eliminate any misinformation that may make teenagers feel that social distancing isn't a necessary measure, or that COVID-19 is an "old person's disease."
It is understandable that teenagers may feel like they’re losing the social ties they've built outside of their family due to social distancing. However, we can maintain social connections through technology. Apps such as Snapchat, FaceTime, IMessage, Whatsapp, and Houseparty allow us to stay in contact with our family and friends. Finding time for teens to hang out virtually with friends is important and parents are encouraged to help their teens prioritize that. In addition, parents should have conversations with their children to help them gain a better understanding as to why we’re all home. The more people that actively follow the rules, then the faster we will all be through this!
How to practice social distancing:
1. When you visit the grocery store, keep about 6 feet between yourself and others and use prevention techniques like avoiding touching your face and washing your hands.
2. Visit the store at times when there are likely to be fewer people shopping.
3. Driving yourself, walking to work, or working from home can help reduce the number of people who are using public transportation.
4. Don’t go to enclosed environments like the gym: alternatives could include exercising in your home, yard, or walking through your neighborhood.
5. Avoiding non-essential gatherings to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.