During this global pandemic, some of the most common questions are what we can do to stop the spread and how we can protect ourselves from Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Coronavirus is spread from person to person mostly through respiratory droplets. These droplets are spread when the infected individual coughs, sneezes, etc. Another common way that the virus spreads is through surface transmission. People can contract the virus if they touch a contaminated surface such as door knobs, tables, phones, etc., without washing their hands properly after doing so. Any close contact to an infected person can be dangerous, but there are a few scientifically proven ways we can protect ourselves and others.
One of the most proven effective ways to stop the spread is to wear a mask. This is a very controversial topic among people at this time. Some people believe this is useless, but scientists disagree with them. Masks can prevent larger expelled droplets from evaporating into smaller droplets that have the possibility to travel farther. If both the carrier and the person being exposed is wearing a mask, the estimated probability of catching the virus is around 1.5%. Without a mask on either side the contagion rate jumps to a staggering 70%. According to scientists the facial coverings that provide the most protection are N95 medical masks, surgical masks, fabric/cloth masks, and masks that have a filter.
Social distancing is also proven to be very effective when protecting ourselves from COVID-19. Scientists suggest that people in close contact for more than a few minutes stay 6 feet away from anyone who is from a different household. This is to protect ourselves from infected droplets in the air that we would breathe into our lungs. Distancing yourself with a mask on has proven to to be 95% effective when preventing COVID-19. Although this is not an ideal situation for anyone, we can help prevent the spread greatly by doing our part in this global pandemic. Let’s do our part in protecting ourselves and others by wearing our masks and social distancing!
By: Paige Hancock, RHNN Blog Editor
LCHS Red Hot News Network 