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Practice social distancing during time of COVID-19

Posted 4/6/20

Humans are by nature social beings. But unfortunately in the time of COVID-19, it’s best to keep your distance from others.

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Practice social distancing during time of COVID-19

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Humans are by nature social beings.

But unfortunately in the time of COVID-19, it’s best to keep your distance from others.

Experts say one of the best ways to slow the spread of novel coronavirus is social distancing, that is, deliberately increasing the physical space between people.

Staying at least six feet away from others and avoiding groups of 10 or more lessens the chance of catching COVID-19 and decreases the risk of overwhelming the medical system.

But Peter Fine, president and CEO of Phoenix-based Banner Health, said people aren’t practicing social distancing enough.

There are 2,456 coronavirus cases state-wide and 65 deaths. About 1,430 of those cases are in Maricopa County. The Arizona Department of Health Services has listed the disease as widespread and the community risk as increasing with some areas of heightened risk.

One reason the coronavirus has become so widespread in Arizona is because people aren’t practicing social distancing, Mr. Fine said.

“We have not done that and it’s part of the reason our country has this problem. It’s true in Arizona, and we should have started earlier,” he said. “Social distancing is the real issue. Bottom line – number one, stay away from people. Don’t congregate. If have to go to the store, go do it. But don’t hang out in groups. This is a serious virus and we need to treat it that way. We’ve never seen a virus like this. Don’t go to a health care facility unless you need to. Don’t cough into your hand and stay away from the public.”

The city of Peoria closed a number of amenities at city parks in an effort to reduce the spread of coronavirus, March 31.

Parks will remain open, but closures include park restrooms, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, dog parks, select sports fields  and any group play areas. Ramada reservations will also be canceled through April 30.

Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Director John Sefton said he has seen a vast majority of citizens respond accordingly and are practicing social distancing while out using parks and trails. However, the city has received reports from others and seen firsthand some of those who either do not care or are oblivious to the risks associated with this outbreak, he said.

“As parks and recreation professionals work through what the pandemic mandates, we remain positioned on keeping parks, trails and open spaces available for our community’s health and wellness,” he said. “It is difficult to enact closures to the areas and amenities that we know bring joy to and enrich the lives of our neighbors. However, taking the lead from the CDC and state health agencies, and being quick to respond to changes, we are doing the right thing for the community.”

On a recent visit to Rio Vista and Pioneer parks, residents were using tables, trails and walkways, but were not using playgrounds and not gathering in groups.

Peoria resident Suzanne Kirk said there were children all over her local playground recently. But she was encouraged to see that no one was on the playground at Rio Vista Park one evening before the amenities were closed.

“Maybe people are finally getting it. I haven’t been out much to stores, but on the Rio Vista trail, there’s been more activity [two weeks ago] than I’ve seen in a year,” she said. “People are tired of being inside and not being able to go shopping, go out to eat or to the movies, and there’s not much else to do. Netflix gets old fast. I don’t want to get completely shut down like other cities.”

Experts say people must make daily choices to stay away from each other as much as possible during this time. Some tips include:

  • No kid playdates, parties, sleepovers, or families/friends visiting each other’s houses and apartments.
  • Reduce the frequency of going to stores, restaurants and coffee shops for the time being. Of course, trips to the grocery store are necessary, but try to limit them and go at times when they are less busy.
  • If you are sick, isolate yourself, stay home, and contact a medical professional.

Councilwoman Denette Dunn said it is imperative for residents to practice social distancing when they go out into public.

“With the current status and uncertainty in identifying who could be a carrier of the coronavirus, it is important we get the message across now to demonstrate responsible physical distance from one another to contain the spread of COVID-19,” she said.

“Balance is important right now more than ever and I am grateful to participate, listen and communicate with my community with virtual social interaction while practicing physical distancing. I hate to see people suffering, but have realized today how much I love and miss people far beyond the current social isolation. After this is over, maybe we will become better than we have been, as we once again will be able to physically interact with one another. This pandemic will pass and the ounce of prevention we practice now, will be the pound of cure we need to move forward.”

Peoria facilities have been closed and City Council as well as Planning and Zoning meetings are being conducted using social distancing measures to protect public health until further notice.

The chamber for the last council meeting was strikingly stark with only Mayor Cathy Carlat at the dais and a few city staff members attending. All other council members attended via conference call, which will be ongoing.

Officials said the decision was made in advance to lead by example and ensure Peoria continues to do all it can to encourage social distancing, in the interest of public health.

“Considering the condition our country is in, and with the knowledge that social distancing may be the best way to combat the virus,  it only makes sense that the city’s leaders would practice social distancing,” Councilwoman Vicki Hunt said. “I’m glad that we have the ability to do our jobs from home, and reporting to our residents through social media.”

Philip Haldiman can be reached at 623-876-3697, phaldiman@newszap.com, or on Twitter @philiphaldiman.