Decreasing the Risk of Catching Pandemic Influenza by Increasing Social Distance


Social distancing (SD) may be the best chance for the general public to avoid the pandemic influenza infection until vaccine is available. Below, in order of potential effectiveness, are various aspects of SD:

1. Become part of a social distance group (SDG). A group may be as small as one person.
   
   
2. Avoid exposure within 3 feet of those outside your SDG.
   
   
3. Avoid enclosed spaces containing crowds, e.g., movie theatres, Wal-Mart, grocery stores, gas stations, schools, malls.
   
   
4. Use medical masks, like N95 masks, if you must get within 3 feet of anyone outside your SDG or if you must go into an enclosed space containing crowds. At this time there is no specific evidence that masks are effective, but they are not dangerous to use.
   
   
5. Wash hands after touching any item touched by someone outside your social distance group.
   
   

Social distancing will not be able to be done by many people. In addition, not every one who strictly applies its principles will avoid infection. But it should be able to protect some people. Since medical preventive measures such as vaccines and antivirals will not be available for at least months, one is faced with either no protective measures or trying something like this SDG concept.


Draft 12/14/05 by J. P. Lofgren, M.D.