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Just as we were adapting to the term 'social distancing,' a shift in terminology is already underway. During a recent Friday briefing, Maria Van Kerkhove from the World Health Organization advocated for the increasingly popular phrase 'physical distancing' as a replacement.
The core principle remains unchanged: maintain a safe physical distance from others. Steer clear of crowded places, gatherings, and situations where you might come within six feet of others or touch shared surfaces. These measures, which promote physical distancing, played a key role in China's rapid containment of their outbreak. (Widespread testing and contact tracing were also crucial factors.)
By adopting the term 'physical distancing,' health officials aim to emphasize that social connections should not be severed. In these turbulent times, maintaining a supportive social network is vital for managing stress, making it essential to actively foster social interactions.
Reach out to a friend or give your mom a call. Organize a virtual happy hour or engage in a window sign game while maintaining your distance. Join a Peloton session or an Instagram live workout to feel connected with others, even if it’s only virtually. Stay close to people emotionally, but keep a safe physical distance.
