One of the most important things researchers have learned about the coronavirus is the need to keep our distance from others, even if they look healthy.
Sneezing, coughing, talking, singing, and breathing produce respiratory droplets that transmit the virus. Fortunately, face masks are helping reduce the spread.
Research tells us that coming within 6-feet of a person who has the virus puts you at the highest risk of infection because the droplets are most concentrated within that range.
Dr. Dan McGee, hospitalist from Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, shares the importance of masking up.
Here’s what you can do to lower your risk of infection:
- Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
- Wear a mask.
- Frequently wash your hands.
- Avoid indoor visits to bars and restaurants. Order take-out instead.
- Stay away from crowds of people, even outdoors.
- Ventilate your home and workspace.
- Limit gatherings of people beyond your immediate household.
- Steer clear of those who aren’t wearing masks or those who wear inadequate protection.
- Don’t carpool with others, and if you must ride in a car with those outside your household, everyone should wear a mask.
For more information, visit spectrumhealth.org.
