What are Community Mitigation and Social Distancing Measures for a Pandemic?
Community mitigation measures, such as cancelling or postponing large festivals and other non-essential gatherings, are common-sense measures taken to reduce person-to-person transmission of pathogens. Social distancing helps stop or slow the spread of infectious diseases. People who are at higher risk from infections (e.g., older individuals, those with other health issues like heart/lung disease or diabetes, babies) are encouraged to avoid crowds as much as possible and minimize contact with others. For instance, plan ahead to avoid shopping at peak hours and reduce frequency of trips to the store. Do not attend large gatherings if you are:
- Ill
- Immune Compromised
- Over the age of 65
- Living with a chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease
- A contact of a known or suspected case of COVID-19
- Exposed to someone with a known respiratory illness
- A domestic traveler to/from an area with widespread community transmission of the novel Coronavirus
- An international traveler, especially to destinations under a Level 3 travel advisory for “widespread or ongoing community spread” of the novel Coronavirus
Everyone plays a part in lowering the impact of emerging diseases within our communities and workplaces. Take action every day to impede the spread of respiratory diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza. Preventive actions include:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, you can use a hand sanitizer with 60-95% alcohol – but that is not the best choice – use soap and water whenever possible.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay isolated when you are sick – this cannot be emphasized enough.
- People who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness should stay isolated at home until they are free of fever and any other symptoms without the use of any medications for at least 24 hours. Employees should contact their healthcare provider before returning to work.
- Before traveling, check the CDC’s Traveler’s Health Notices for the latest guidance and recommendations for each intended destination.
- Any employee who becomes sick while traveling must promptly consult with their healthcare provider and understand that they should notify their supervisor for guidance before returning to work.
FDOH’s dedicated COVID-19 webpage FloridaHealthCoViD19.gov remains the best and most up-to-date resource for information and guidance regarding COVID-19 in Florida. Their COVID-19 Call Center is active 24/7 for questions about this virus: (866)779-6121 or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
All other local questions should be directed to the Emergency Operations Center at (904)548-0900.
