There’s plenty of stuff we don’t know about the coronavirus, which can make us feel uncertain about the activities we can or should do.
Now that some months have passed in cohabitation with COVID-19, states are trying to figure out ways of getting back on their feet, with rising levels of unemployment and a struggling economy. At the moment, we can all pretty much agree that it feels like there are more questions than answers about this pandemic.
Despite all the uncertainty that surrounds us, people are itching to get back to a semblance of normalcy, whether that’s by eating in restaurants or visiting a hair salon. The Huffington Post hosted a COVID-19 Q&A, and compiled some of the most common questions that are plaguing all sorts of people. Here are 5 of the most pressing ones.
How safe are restaurants?
There’s no risk of contracting COVID-19 from food, which means that delivery and take out are the safest options. When it comes to visiting a restaurant and sitting down to eat, there’s instantly more risk, especially if you’re seated indoors with poor circulation. All restaurants should have proper social distancing guidelines in place. And it goes without saying that staff should wear masks and call in sick if they think they might have COVID-19. Guests should practice social distancing and wear masks when appropriate, but there’s still some risk due to the fact that you’re eating and drinking and won’t be able to have your face covered at all times.
In order to eliminate risks, try going to restaurants only with people who live in your household and preferably sit outdoors. If you’re a high risk person due to your age or an underlying health condition, it might be safer to avoid exposing yourself to these risks altogether.
Is it safe to go to the doctor?
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Any doctor decisions should be made depending on two factors: how important the visit is and the level of infections in your area. If you need to go to the doctor, you should go. Call ahead of time to ensure that your doctor’s office is following safety measures.
If your doctor visit is superficial (for example, if you’re getting a dental cleaning), consider delaying it. Wait in your car or outside the building. No business should have a waiting room at this point to avoid concentration of people.
Is it safe to use public transportation?
Public transportation is inevitable at times. But in order to limit your risks, try to ride trains with as few passengers as possible, avoid contact with high touch areas, such as poles and doors, wear your mask and stay 6 feet away from other people. Disinfect your hands after leaving the train and wash them once you arrive in your location.
Is it safe to stay at an Airbnb with others?
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To minimize the risk, it’s important to trust the people you’ll be staying with (if you’re not traveling with family members) and the place where you’ll be spending the night. Have open conversations with friends and avoid exposing yourself if you think they’ve been careless with their safety measures. Contact the owner of the place you’ll be staying at and try to find a place with a minimum 3 night stay. This window will ensure that you are not exposed to previous renters.
Is it safe to socialize indoors?
There’s always a risk when socializing indoors, making it difficult to avoid the virus if you’re sharing space with someone who is infected or asymptomatic. To avoid risks be sure to minimize the time you spend indoors with others, wearing face masks and maintaining 6 feet of distance. Open your windows and doors, ensuring there’s air circulation. Wash your hands regularly and sanitize available surfaces.
