5 things you shouldn't do right after the end of self-isolation

We all can't wait to hug friends, have a party or go on a trip. But don't be in a hurry. While the world is showing the first signs of easing isolation measures, the situation remains serious. The death toll every day is still measured in the thousands. There is still a lot we don’t know about the coronavirus and we don’t have a vaccine.

Use common sense whatever regulations apply in your area. Here's exactly what you shouldn't do.

1. Throw a party or go to a bar

Social distancing measures were introduced for a reason: they slow the spread of the virus from person to person. A big party or a gathering in a crowded bar is a lot of contacts. If at least one of those present is a carrier of SARS ‑ CoV ‑ 2, he can pass it on to everyone else.

“I want to remind you again: this is a very contagious virus. At social events and meetings, there is always the risk that an asymptomatic carrier will unknowingly become a spread of the disease, - said Deborah Birx, White House coordinator for the fight against coronavirus. "Anyone who wants to pack up and throw a party for 20 people, wait until then."

2. Stop washing your hands

Even when restrictions are eased, it will not mean that the coronavirus is over. Many businesses and stores will have to reopen for economic reasons, although the virus will still spread, albeit at a slower pace than it is now.

Remember that the goal of self-isolation and other preventive measures is to avoid overcrowded hospitals and overburdening the health care system. So keep the habit of washing your hands longer and more thoroughly with you. This is always important, especially after contact with large numbers of people and surfaces in public places.

3. Immediately visit high-risk people

Surely you would like to see your elderly relatives as soon as possible, but do not rush with it. The vaccine won't be out for a long time, and for people at risk, distancing is still the best defense. Before going to them, think carefully about whether this visit is really necessary.

4. Taking a big trip

When travel is allowed again, hotel and ticket prices are likely to be attractively low. But do not forget that at airports and train stations you will be in close proximity to a large number of people, which means that the risk of infection will greatly increase.

Even if you don't get sick yourself, you can spread the virus wherever you go. This is how he embraced the whole world. If a new outbreak occurs, you are unlikely to want to get stuck in a foreign country or some remote corner from which it is not clear how to get out.

5. Throw away the masks

In the future, we may face a new outbreak of coronavirus or even some completely new infection. So reusable masks definitely shouldn't be thrown away. When movement restrictions are relaxed, it is best to combine optimism with realism. Enjoy your freedom, but don't give up on precautions.