CDC Infection Control
As COVID-19 continues to weigh heavily worldwide, some countries that have reopened are closing again while many states in the U.S. continue to ease restrictions. With new cases continuing to arise in both the U.S. and abroad, it seems as though it may be longer than expected for the curve to flatten enough for life as we knew it to return to normal, or rather the new normal.
Working to achieve this new normal requires each individual to take ownership of their health and responsibility in halting the spread of infection. Many CDC guidelines have been in effect since early March when it comes to social distancing, and as we begin to come together again, additional measures will continue to be implemented. Following these guidelines is paramount to creating a pathway toward successful rehabilitation and mitigation of the virus’ impact in the future. Here is what you can do to stop the spread of infection and protect yourself and others.
Continue to maintain social distance, even as public spaces reopen
Social distancing is widely regarded as one of the most important strategies to slow the spread of infection since COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person. This means that close contact with other people is highly discouraged unless you are already living in the same household, meaning families who are already living together can remain together.
Social distancing requires individuals to stay at least 6 ft. apart — or approximately two arms’ length — from other people and to avoid gathering in groups and stay away from crowded places. Unless, of course, a family member is experiencing symptoms or tests positive for the virus. Then, in that case, that individual should remain isolated and follow CDC guidelines for release from isolation.
Wear facial coverings when out in public
As experts have learned more about the virus, they’ve realized that the virus can also be spread even when those infected are asymptomatic, and therefore facial coverings have become so important. With masks, you are not only protected from potentially infected droplets in the air around you, but also from infecting others. And, those who have recovered are not protected as some patients have been infected twice.
Fortunately, companies are actively producing facial coverings that can be washed and reused, even with unique styles for more stylish, but compliant, wearers. It’s considered best practice at the present to wear facial coverings whenever in public, and this is especially true for enclosed spaces like grocery stores and pharmacies.
Wash your hands, and often
We use our hands regularly every day to touch virtually everything, so it’s important to cleanse often. This is especially true after being in a public place where you may have come into contact with others or touched public facilities or objects that others may have also touched. Wash hands before touching personal items, clothing, and, especially, your face. While washing is important, it’s also vital to cover coughs and sneezes in order to prevent water droplets from spreading further into the air, potentially carrying infecting droplets from being breathed in by others.
A common strategy is to cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm versus your hand, since you’ll likely use your hand to touch something after a cough or sneeze. Carry and use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, which is the minimum percentage of alcohol that is needed to be effective in killing harmful bacteria.
While these are just a few helpful tips, employing these strategies as you enter the new normal can help to slow the spread of harmful pathogens — including COVID-19 — ensure the safety and wellbeing of friends, colleagues and loved ones, and promote healthy living for the future.
