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COVID-19: 14 Ways to practise social distancing and how to remind someone if they’re trying to “get close”

16.03.2020

By Ronn Tan

COVID-19: 14 Ways to practise social distancing and how to remind someone if they’re trying to “get close”

Oh, no! Coronavirus, why do you have to be so rude? If you have been following the news, you’d know that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. As of writing (16 March 2020), more than 100 countries have reported laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19, including new areas such as Malta, Maldives, Costa Rica, Bulgaria, and Faroe Islands—every continent except Antartica. Maybe that’s why Cardi B is planning to move there with her family.

Is it time to summon the Power Rangers? Or the Avengers? How about the Powerpuff Girls? With 566 confirmed cases in Malaysia so far, one can only wonder if a national lockdown is necessary. To date, we are the worst-hit nation in Southeast Asia. Fortunately, the death count here in Malaysia is still zero (#TouchWood). According to Health Minister Dr Adham Baba, while no official “lockdown” order is in the works yet, Malaysians are encouraged to practise social distancing. The Ministry of Health recommends maintaining at least a six-foot (two metres) distance between yourself and others. We are also advised to avoid mass gatherings as well as postpone overseas travel to countries such as Italy, South Korea, Iran, and Denmark as well as China and Japan.

How should we practise social distancing? Social distancing includes ways to stop or slow the spread of infectious diseases—less contact between you and other people. Avoid hand-shaking and kissing (yes, kissing too). Whether you’re unwell or not, do your best to avoid contact with others, if unnecessary. Better safe than sorry, no? Although we are encouraged to do this, not many will remember. What should you do?

These are 14 ways to remind someone if they forget to practise social distancing:

“You literally can’t sit with us.. I mean.. me. Just me. Shoo shoo!”

“Honey, touch me and I’ll hit you with my best karate moves”.

“Hand shakes? I’d love to but nah”.

“Too near, social intruder, too near. See ya like never!”

Black Panther taught us more than how to isolate your entire nation from others (introverts rejoice!)—he showed us how not to spread viruses too.

#CoronaUnchecked! This is why social distancing is muy importante, guys.

Or you could just be like Andre the Giant.

“Don’t. Even. Try. To. Touch. Me. Or it will be A-lita too late”.

There are many ways to go down… and COVID-19 sure ain’t one of them.

Darling, the hills won’t be the only thing kept alive.

“You tried me but not today, boo”.

There’s no better way to say “Bye, Corona” than to walk away.

“Shucks.. I love you, hun, but I don’t want any of your buns right now”.

Awwww how cute… now stay that way, please!

It is really, really, really important to take the situation seriously. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, before and after eating, and after going to the toilet; as well as cover your cough and sneeze, dispose of tissues, and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Let’s all do our parts during this unfortunate period. Take care and let’s combat COVID-19 together, people!

For more on the COVID-19 situation in Malaysia, click here.

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