THE VALUE OF MASK-WEARING AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING | AFFINITY HEALTH
Affinity Health discusses how key research supports the value of physical distancing and mask-wearing as ways to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection.
It goes without saying that the best way to prevent the coronavirus is to not get it in the first place. In addition to being vaccinated against COVID-19, you can lower your chances of getting or spreading the virus by taking wearing a facemask and social distancing.
Why Wear A Facemask?
Facemasks are a good way to keep yourself and others safe. Respiratory droplets are the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19. When you cough, sneeze, talk, shout or sing, you release droplets into the air. When these droplets fall into the mouths or nostrils of others who are nearby, they may inadvertently breathe these droplets in.
It is simple to use a mask as an effective barrier to keep your respiratory droplets from spreading to other people. Masks, when worn over the nose and mouth, have been shown to limit the number of droplets that are sprayed.
The virus that causes COVID-19 can transmit more easily through some masks than others. It’s important to pick out a mask that’s snug around the chin and nose, is composed of breathable fabric (like cotton), has two or three layers, and includes inside filter pockets.
Keep in mind that while a facemask helps prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is not a substitute for social distancing. Masks should still be worn in addition to staying at least two metres, especially when indoors around people who don’t live in your household.
Practice Social Distancing
Another way of limiting the spread of an infectious disease such as COVID-19 is to practice social distancing. The 2-metre social distancing rule is based on evidence that the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is through respiratory droplets falling on others or surfaces. Research has found that putting social distancing policies into practice is an effective public health tool to reduce the spread of the disease.
“Social distancing measures have been proven to work well in the past. In fact, social distancing helped stall the spread of the 1918 Spanish flu, a major pandemic that killed 675,000 in the U.S. alone. It’s believed social distancing and the prohibition of large gatherings stopped the disease from spreading quickly and prevented countless deaths,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
Monitor Your Health Daily
It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and to alert your healthcare provider should you experience any of the symptoms, such as fever, tiredness, dry cough, and shortness of breath.
Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. On average it takes five to six days from when someone is infected with the coronavirus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days, so you should self-isolate if you have symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who is unwell.
Learn More: Symptoms of the New Omicron COVID-19 Variant
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading provider of health insurance, offering you a range of options at affordable rates including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. Our range of healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service at all times. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
