[custom_adv] Now that the new coronavirus and COVID-19, the illness it causes, are spreading among communities in the United States and other countries, phrases such as “social distancing,” “self-quarantine” and “flattening the curve” are showing up in the media. [custom_adv] While it may be disappointing to hear that so many sports events, cruises, festivals and other gatherings are being cancelled, there is a public health reason for these measures. These cancellations help stop or slow down the spread of disease allowing the health care system to more readily care for patients over time. [custom_adv] Cancelling events that are likely to draw crowds is an example of social and physical distancing. Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. [custom_adv] Staying at least six feet away from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19. Wear a cloth face covering where social distancing can’t be practiced, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. [custom_adv] According to the World Health Organization and the CDC, social distancing is currently the most effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19. We created this interactive Scoreboard, updated daily, to empower organizations to measure and understand the efficacy of social distancing initiatives at the local level. [custom_adv] As the country continues to follow social distancing guidelines to help curb the spread of COVID-19, many of us are experiencing feelings of stress, fear and nervousness. These feelings are normal, and people typically bounce back after difficult times. For now, these measures are critical to help slow the spread of disease to avoid overwhelming the health care system so ill patients can be cared for over time. [custom_adv] Like a hospital, grocery store, or pharmacy, a blood drive is essential to ensuring the health of the community, and the Red Cross will continue to hold blood drives during this challenging time to help meet patient needs. Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control.
