Why staying at home is so important

Last week, it was reported that the number of COVID-19-related deaths could be lower than originally estimated as people are following social distancing and stay-at-home guidelines.

The primary way COVID-19 spreads is through close contact between individuals. The virus is transmitted when droplets from an infected person enter a non-infected person’s mouth or are inhaled into his or her lungs. This can occur through coughing, sneezing or talking.

Social distancing can make it harder for the virus to spread, as the droplets are unlikely to travel too far. However, there is still a risk. Following stay-at-home orders reduces the risk even more by removing human contact, except with family members in the home.

While there are other factors that impact how the virus spreads, isolating is one of the most important things someone can do to help avoid infection or becoming a carrier. Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about keeping yourself safe in this situation:

• Follow guidance from your local authorities
• Use home delivery for medication and groceries, if possible
• If you need to go out in public, stay at least 6 feet away from others and cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover
• Work from home, if you can
• Avoid using any kind of public transportation, ridesharing or taxis as much as possible

During your time at home, it’s still important to practice good hygiene, take extra care keeping your home clean and to be cautious and safe when handling deliveries and packages.

Thank you for doing your part to help slow the spread of COVID-19. We’re getting through this together.