What is the purpose of social and physical distancing as defined by the World Health Organization?

What is the purpose of social and physical distancing as defined by the World Health Organization?

Social and physical distancing measures aim to slow the spread of disease by stopping chains of transmission of COVID-19 and preventing new ones from appearing. These measures secure physical distance between people (of at least one metre), and reduce contact with contaminated surfaces, while encouraging and sustaining virtual social connection within families and communities.

How can physical distancing help during COVID-19 pandemic?

Physical distancing helps limit the spread of COVID-19 – this means we keep a distance of at least 1m from each other and avoid spending time in crowded places or in groups.

What was China’s social distancing policy during the coronavirus pandemic?

China’s first phase of public health response to COVID-19 focused on short-term measures to stop the virus spreading from Hubei to the rest of the country, and within the general population. School closures, transport bans and workplace shutdowns helped to limit transmission of COVID-19. As these temporary containment measures are gradually lifted, the next phase of public health response is focused on mitigating the risk of COVID-19 across the general population over the long term.

How many different human coronaviruses are there?

Six species of human coronaviruses are known, with one species subdivided into two different strains, making seven strains of human coronaviruses altogether.

How does COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose.

Do weather and climate determine where COVID-19 occurs?

No. There is currently no conclusive evidence that either weather (short term variations in meteorological conditions) or climate (long-term averages) have a strong influence on transmission.

Can flies transmit the coronavirus disease?

COVID-19 IS NOT transmitted through houseflies. To date, there is no evidence or information to suggest that the COVID-19 virus transmitted through houseflies. The virus that cause COVID-19 spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks.

Will climate change make COVID-19 worse?

There is no evidence of a direct connection between climate change and the emergence or transmission of COVID-19 disease. As the disease is now well established in the human population, efforts should focus on reducing transmission and treating patients.

Are children at lower risk of COVID-19 than adults?

So far, data suggests that children under the age of 18 years represent about 8.5% of reported cases, with relatively few deaths compared to other age groups and usually mild disease. However, cases of critical illness have been reported. As with adults, pre-existing medical conditions have been suggested as a risk factor for severe disease and intensive care admission in children.Further studies are underway to assess the risk of infection in children and to better understand transmission in this age group.