Six feet apart.

This phrase has become increasingly familiar in our unfamiliar world, and for good reason. Social distancing is an important part of the COVID-19 pandemic to keep oneself and the community surrounding healthy. 

Staying inside to keep yourself and everyone around you save may feel like an eternity but it is for the greater good. While many may be eager to socialize, social distancing is necessary to stop the spread of the virus. According to the CDC, COVID-19 spreads through droplets from an infected persons mouth or nose when coughing, sneezing, or talking. Maintaining a safe six foot distance from everyone is the most effective way to stop the virus from spreading because anyone could be infected, even if they are not showing outward symptoms of COVID-19.

Hanging out with friends is not essential. Going out to get food every day is not essential. Putting others and yourself at risk of infection is not essential. Contact with other people should be limited to those quarantined in the same household and not friends that are quarantined elsewhere. 

Distancing is not just for your own health, but for the health of anyone you may come in contact with. Everyone is at risk for COVID-19, no matter their age or preexisting health conditions. 

Stay at home and shelter place orders are put in place by states across America and are encouraging staying at home and only leaving your house for essential purposes. Yet people continue to leave their houses to socialize. The more social distancing that takes place, the faster this pandemic will subdue.

Going outdoors is encouraged, but keeps social distance from other people outside. When going to the store, for essential reasons only, wear a mask to prevent infection and continue social distance from other people.

Without a vaccine in the near future, social distancing is the most viable option to keep yourself and others around you safe.