Heartbeat: Nice two metres, two metres nice – the importance of social distancing

May 28, 2020

It may sound simple; wash your hands more often and for 20 seconds or longer. How many of us in reality though do that regularly throughout the day? There may be a temptation to give your hands a quick wash after the 10th time or perhaps squeeze past someone in the supermarket, but with COVID-19 cases increasing, we must observe the social distancing guidelines set out for us by the government.

Done properly social distancing is in place to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Across the UK we are being asked to:

• Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of COVID-19.These symptoms include high temperature and/or a new and continuous cough.
• Avoid non-essential use of public transport.
• Maintain a distance of two metres from those around you when in public places.
• Work from home, where possible. This is something you should have already had a conversation about with your manager if this applies to your role. If not, speak to your manager to clarify if you can do so.
• Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services.

Following these guidelines is particularly important if you:

• Are over 70
• Have an underlying health condition
• Or are pregnant.

Other ways you can help prevent the spread of infection include:

• Washing your hands more often. Alternatively, use a sanitiser throughout the day, when you blow your nose, sneeze, cough or eat or handle food. Clinical colleagues, in particular, are reminded of the five moments of handwashing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin and wash your hands
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home.