Social distancing is the new norm as we try to slow the spread of COVID-19, so what does it mean?
The Australian Government, working with the State and Territories, has shut down restaurants, cafes, casinos, clubs, gyms, sporting venues, places of worship and cinemas as of midday, March 23, 2020.
People are being told to stay home wherever possible and maintain a safe distance of 1.5 metres from each other.
Here is what we know:
What is social distancing and why is it important?
Social distancing includes ways to stop or slow the spread of COVID-19 by reducing opportunities for physical contact.
During the current COVID-19 outbreak, social distancing means:
- Self-isolate if you are unwell
- Avoid social gatherings
- Keep 1.5 metres apart
- Avoid direct close contact with a person who has tested positive
Guide to social distancing
At home:
To reduce the spread of germs:
- Practise good hand hygiene
- DO NOT shaking hands
- Frequently disinfect surfaces and household items
- Increase ventilation in your home by opening windows and adjusting air conditioning
- Limit trips to the shops and shop online when necessary
- Reconsider travel and outings in the near future
If someone in your household has the virus:
- Keep the number of people in the house to a minimum
- Care for the person in a single room if possible
- Both the infected person and the carer should wear a surgical mask when they are in the same room
- Find alternative accommodation for vulnerable family members such as people over 65 years or people with a chronic illness.
At work:
To reduce the spread of germs at work:
- Stay at home in isolation if you are sick
- DO NOT shake hands
- Attend meetings via video conferencing or phone call
- Promote good hand hygiene
- Clean surfaces and office supplies regularly
At school:
To reduce the spread of germs in schools:
- If your child is sick, keep them at home
- Practise good hand hygiene
- Clean and disinfect desks and surfaces regularly
- Open windows and adjust air conditioning for more ventilation in classrooms
- Promote strict hygiene among food preparation
What do I do if I have cold or flu-like symptoms?
If you have cold or flu-like symptoms seek medical advice. Doctors who are working with 13 DOCTOR can see and speak to you over the phone or via a video consultation using your phone or computer while you stay in your home.
If you are wanting to go to your local GP or hospital, call ahead so they can take necessary precautions.