Coronavirus Update: Social Distancing

Dear Faculty and Staff,

Heading into the weekend, I’d like to give some more clarity as to our protocols regarding “social distancing.” As we’ve all learned in the past six weeks, this is truly a fluid situation and we are learning and relearning each day, how to best keep our community safe.

What is Social Distancing?

Social distancing is a public health measure that is used to reduce the spread of a contagious virus. Its aim is to separate infected people and their close contacts from non-infected people to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Why Practice Social Distancing? 

COVID-19 is spread through droplets when people cough. Social distancing decreases the “inhalation risk”. Because the droplets are heavy, they fall to the ground (or table, desk, etc) a few feet from where a person coughs. When you stay one to two meters (three to six feet) apart, the risk of inhaling the virus decreases. However, the further away, the better.

Am I Safe if I Practice Social Distancing?

Social distancing is one precaution. It is not the only one. And it DOES NOT replace hand washing! Remember that the virus can be spread when your hand comes in contact with the virus and you touch your face.

How is SSIS Practicing Social Distancing?

• Most Staff and Faculty are working from home.

• Meetings are held virtually rather than face-to-face.

• The number of visitors to campus has been radically reduced.

• Group meetings and social functions have been canceled.

What You Can Do to Practice Social Distancing

• Limit gatherings to five or fewer people.

• Maintain a distance of at least 2 meters (6 feet) from other people.

• Limit non-essential trips outside your home.

• Do not shake hands with, or hug, people outside of your family.

What Else You Should Take Into Consideration

As we recently witnessed in Thao Dien, a simple evening out can result in several hundred people needing to be contact traced. That is why we strongly advise AVOIDING crowds. However, social connection is important for our social-emotional wellbeing – just make sure it is at a safe distance (2 meters/6 feet). Also, being outside is preferable to meeting inside. Takeout is preferable to sitting in a restaurant.

Thanks to Lisa for the explanations above. And, thank you for fulfilling your civic duty to keep yourself, the SSIS community, and the people of Vietnam safe. 

All good wishes,
Catriona