Leadership for Healthy People and Communities

COVID-19: Myths Versus Facts - Myths About Social Distancing

Myth: If I am outdoors, I do not need to practice social distancing.

Fact: While it is less likely that you will catch COVID-19 in open areas, it is still important to stay at least 6 feet away from others. Some people with COVID-19 have no symptoms and can spread the disease through respiratory droplets.

Myth: It’s OK if I go have a cup of coffee with my neighbor, or my teenager visits a friend, or my child has a play date with a friend – just this once.

Fact: Social distancing only works if everyone stays within their immediate household circles. Exposing yourself to even one additional person increases transmission risk.

Myth: Wearing a cloth face covering/mask will keep me safe if I am around anyone who has COVID-19.

Fact: Use of cloth face coverings is recommended in public because they can prevent people who have COVID-19 — possibly without any symptoms — from passing it along to others. The coverings do not block out viruses.

Myth: If I and everyone around me are wearing cloth face coverings, there’s no need to practice social distancing.

Fact: Cloth face coverings are NOT a replacement for social distancing. Whenever you are outside your home or around anyone outside your immediate household circle, you should stay 6 feet away from others.

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