Keep safe, stay 6 feet away

The government is doing its bit to stop the spread of Covid-19 in the UAE and you need to do yours. In the second piece for this five-part #KTForGood series, we explain why social distancing must be included in your ‘new normal’ routines.

When it’s time to step out of your home, remember that you still can’t get too close with people around you. People who do not know that they have the virus — including you — can transmit the disease, doctors said. This is where maintaining a safe distance from others can serve as an important step to curb the spread of Covid-19.

Dr Daffodills Guevarra, general practitioner at Prime Medical Centre (Deira), said social distancing means deliberately keeping a proper physical distance between you and others.

“The World Health Organisation and Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a distance of about six feet (two metres) when possible,” Dr Guevarra said.

“This is because when someone sneezes, coughs or talks, he or she sprays droplets from their mouth or nose that can go up to six feet. In case a person with Covid-19 (could be asymptomatic) does the same, this can infect others.”

The government has made it easy for everyone to follow the rule, with signages and posters everywhere, in addition to campaigns online.

“All stores have stickers on the floor telling you where to stand. Restaurants and malls are running at 30 per cent capacity. All we need to do is obey,” Dr Guevarra said.

Dr Suhail Kazim, medical director of Emirates Hospital, Jumeirah said that with the current scenario, there have been dramatic changes on day-today activities and it’s not the same for everyone.

“It’s very different when you are living in a cramped area, and this is where the greatest risk can happen. However, irrespective of where you work or live, everyone must understand social distancing can help keep people safe.”

Social distancing means deliberately keeping a safe distance between you and others to prevent the spread of disease.”

Dr Daffodills Guevarra,

GP, Prime Medical Centre (Deira)