Whenever people gather, there are opportunities to spread germs

At a recent corporate conference in Boston, with a gathering of 175 people, COVID 19 spread to more than 100 people. 

Even though, not every place will be so contagious, it is impossible to know. Also there are several asymptomatic carriers.

In US everyone is advised to avoid gatherings of 10 or more for the next 15 days, including restaurants and bars and food courts, along with discretionary travel.  Maintaining 6 feet of distance with another person, or at least reducing the number of people who are allowed within this 6 feet zone is important to protect yourself from coronavirus. 

Tips for self-distancing:

1. Stay at least 3-6 feet away from other people, as far as possible. Stay away from hairdressers, barbers, and nail salons because they have to get closer than 6 feet. 
2. Avoid sports arenas, theatres, museums, bars, restaurants and places where ever there are chances of coming in contact with large numbers of people. 
3. Bars and restaurants should close except for takeout and delivery.
4. Skip playdates, parties, sleepovers, or families visiting each others houses.
5. Do not visit medical establishments. Find virtual ways, such as FaceTime or Skype video visits, to lessen the social isolation of people in these kinds of facilities.
6.  Riding mass transit is a major challenge because it’s hard to stay 6 feet away from strangers. Having fewer people go to work will help cut the risk for those who don’t have an alternative.
7. Carry some soap and hand sanitizer
8. Wash your hands frequently and longer than you usually do. 
9. Remember mnemonic SUMAN K 
10. The recommended length of time for handwashing is 20 seconds, or about as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday to You” through twice. 
11. Soap and water are as good options as hand sanitizers.

Dr KK Aggarwal

President CMAAO, HCFI and Past National President IMA