There is so much information circulating about preventing the spread of the corona virus (COVID-19). But unfortunately, there are still many who choose to ignore the government's appeal to take this precaution. Why? Because there are still many people who don't know the scale of the danger of COVID-19.

As humans, we all care about the safety of ourselves and our families. Therefore, all kinds of precautions must be taken to fight the transmission of COVID-19. Starting from diligently washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, if you cough, cover it with your elbow, don't touch your face, stay at home, and keep your distance when talking/face to face with other people. Especially for the latter, we often hear it called physical distancing (WHO released a change from social distancing to physical distancing, an explanation is in here). But what is social distancing and how does it apply to everyday life?

Keep your distance here means ensuring there is sufficient space or distance between people, limiting the number of public gatherings, minimizing people's contact with each other, and avoiding mass crowds. An easy example, when you queue, provide a distance of at least 1.5 meters between the people in front and behind you!

Many complain that maintaining distance is very difficult in certain roles or jobs. So quite a few also choose to ignore this advice because it is impossible for them to implement. Even if you read the news and saw a series of photos of the situation on the Commuter Line some time ago, those who want to implement it, don't really understand the guidelines.

Keeping your distance is not easy, especially as humans we are social creatures. We are used to daily mobility and interacting with many people. However, what needs to be understood is that maintaining social distance has proven to be effective in slowing down the COVID-19 pandemic which can spread between people, so this is a very important factor in protecting yourself, your loved ones, and the people in your community. Even by doing physical distancing or social distancing, you can save the world!

The following are frequently asked questions about maintaining distance, which may be your questions too. Come on, check it out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why should I keep my distance?

A: Keeping your distance is very effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 (which is caused by coronavirus), because this virus can spread through coughing, sneezing and close contact. By keeping a distance from other people, we reduce our chances of catching the COVID-19 virus from other people and spreading it again to people around us.

Q: Who should keep their distance?

A: All of us! Maintaining distance is important for all of us, but there are also people who are at higher risk of experiencing serious complications if they contract COVID-19. Those at higher risk are:

1. Parents aged 65 years and over;

2. People living in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes;

3. People who have chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

Q: People talk about "flatten the curve"? What does this have to do with social distancing?

A: “Flatten the curve” refers to reducing the number of people who get sick at any one time. If there is a high spike in the number of COVID-19 cases all at once, healthcare systems and resources could potentially become overwhelmed. Efforts that help slow COVID-19 from spreading quickly--such as social distancing--can help reduce the number of people who get sick at any one time.

Q: When should I start practicing social distancing?

A: The best time to start practicing social distancing is now. Therefore, it is very important to know the news developments regarding the spread of COVID-19 on the official website of the Indonesian Government https://www.covid19.go.id/. Pay attention to and carry out official directions/admonitions issued by the central and regional governments. Active coordination with RT/RW and residents around your house also has a more effective impact.

When in Public

Q: How can I keep my distance if I have to leave the house?

A: Always maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from other people. While continuing to take other precautions such as washing your hands with soap and water orhand sanitizer, avoid touching your face, cover it with your elbow when you cough/sneeze, and use a mask if you feel unfit.

Q: What if I have to go to the grocery store?

A: In places where many people gather, there is a potential risk for disease transmission. When you visit a grocery or grocery store, always maintain a distance of 1.5 meters and remember to avoid touching your face and washing your hands. Try to visit the shop at quiet times. For grocery store owners, always provide hand sanitizer and always keep the store clean. Provide delivery services to customers' homes and non-cash payments, so there is minimal physical contact.

Q: What if I use public transportation?

A: If you have the option of driving yourself, walking to work or working from home, this can certainly help reduce the number of people using public transportation. This also helps prevent you and those close to you from potentially being exposed to the virus. However, if you really have to, still try to maintain a distance of 1.5 meters between you and other people, as well as implementing other preventative measures.

Q: What if I own a cafe or restaurant business?

A: You can still open your business with some modifications. Several Qasir merchants who have F&B businesses are starting to implement the "no eating on site" concept. This means that you can continue to serve your loyal customers, only specifically for those who order take away or for delivery by online delivery service or motorbike taxi.

Also read No need to panic, here are tips for running an F&B business in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic

Relationships with Relatives and Friends

Q: Should I stop visiting relatives and friends?

A: Yes, especially elderly relatives. Older people are at high risk of serious complications from COVID-19. Limiting contact with them for now means loving them. As a substitute, you can try other connection methods, such as by telephone or via video chat.

Q: Do I have to keep my distance from other people in my house?

A: Maintaining distance is a priority when we interact with large groups. Avoiding close contact in the household is also almost impossible, but if someone in the house has been outside the house, remind them to clean themselves immediately when they get home. If someone in your household is sick (of any kind), it's important to isolate contact with them as appropriate.

Q: What about family events such as social gatherings or recitations?

A: Postpone all meetings of this kind or find alternative ways through online meetings. Avoiding less urgent gatherings really helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Q: Should you cancel big events like weddings?

A: Although it is difficult to postpone important events like this, it is also important to protect the people we love. It is better to postpone or change your plans.

Q: If I avoid in-person meetings, how can I stay connected with people?

A: There are many ways you can connect with friends: phone calls, text messages, emails and video chats. In the meantime, be patient, physical social distancing is not only important for our health, but also for wider transmission, as well as helping those who serve as public servants from being overwhelmed, such as medical personnel and other public service officers. Look for alternative ways to stay connected to maintain your emotional health.

For health services related to COVID-19 symptoms, please contact:

112 or 0813 8837 6955 (DKI only)

or official website https://www.covid19.go.id/

Qasir fully supports the government's appeal for measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.