There are mixed emotions around the ease of restrictions in America recently. Some are relieved that America is starting to reopen, but they are also very cautious because another outbreak could be right around the corner. We need to reopen safely and with consideration.
While it is important to reopen for the economy, we have to be sure that we do it in a smart way so that we don’t end up right back where we have been since March.
A lot of people have been getting infected in their own home from household members that contract the virus from the community and bring it home where sustained contact between household members leads to infection.
Remember: Infection = Exposure to Virus x Time
If a person coughs or sneezes, the virus hangs in the air, some fall into surfaces, most falls to the ground. So if you are face-to-face with a person, having a conversation, and that person sneezes or coughs straight at you, it’s pretty easy to see how it is possible to inhale virus particles and become infected. Even if you are not in the room when the cough or sneeze occurs, you can still be infected by the drops in the air.
Anyone you spend more than 10 minutes with face-to-face is potentially infected. Anyone who shares a space with you for an extended period is potentially infected. This is also why it is critical for people who are symptomatic to stay home. Your sneezes and your coughs expel so much virus that you can infect a whole room of people.
Keep in mind that you could be shedding the virus into the environment for up to 5 days before symptoms begin.
So now that we are starting to reopen America, you can see why we need to be cautious and slow about it. Indoor spaces with recycled air and a high number of people are concerning.
Social distancing rules are in place to protect you and others around you. So are other rules such as restricted numbers of people in an area at a time, how long you are in an area, plexiglass shields, and continual sanitizing.
As restrictions are loosened, and we all start to venture out more, please be sure that you are safe in your environments.
If you are outside and pass someone, remember it is “dose and time” needed for infection. You would have to be in their airstream for 5+ minutes for a chance of infection.
Continue to wear your mask when you are with others, wash your hands often, and keep things sanitized as much as possible. You will be minimizing the risk of infection to both yourself and others in your vicinity, and hopefully we will one day be able to walk around again mask free and be together again.
Stay safe and healthy, and if you need us over here at John Scott Insurance, reach out. We are always here for you!