Understanding Quarantine Life, isolation and social distancing

As the scare of COVID-19 dominates around the news cycle, because of the gigantic casualties worldwide, the word QUARANTINE also seems to be prominent in this crucial time period. But, what does this word really mean for our life? What is history of quarantine? English word “Quarantine” originated from the Italian phrase “Quaranta Giarni” which means 40 days.

The practice of quarantine dates back to 14^th century when ships arriving from ports with plague outbreaks remained in harbor for 40 days to prevent the spread of disease. Quarantine does not have to be a scary thing. It is an effective way to protect the public from the spread of contagious disease.

Quarantine life is for those people and groups who don’t have any contagious disease-related symptoms but were exposed to any sickness. It keeps them away from others, so they don’t unknowingly infect anyone. During outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics, quarantine may be used for public safety.

Difference Between Isolation & Quarantine

It’s important to understand the slight difference between the two terminologies: isolation & quarantine. Isolation word is used for those patients who are already sick and are under attack of contagious disease. The prime purpose of isolation is to keep infected person away from healthy ones in order to prevent the sickness from spreading

Quarantine is not the only way of protection during pandemics. Social distancing, wearing a good face mask and following all WHO-recommended preventive measures are also some of the important ways to fight against the disease. So, what does social distancing mean?  Simply, avoiding the large gathering and keeping at least the distance of 2-3 meters from people around you is social distancing.
It is the best way of breaking the chain of social meetings. I think it is an obligation on all of us to keep a distance from others for assuring the invulnerability of mankind.

Use this Time by Constructive Activities

While we are stuck in quarantine, we can use this time by engaging ourselves in some constructive activities. We can use this time to transform our life. We can improve our skills in arts, painting, reading good books etc and can build healthier habits while staying at home.

As the quarantine disturbs our daily life routine, but, the positive factor is, we can use this opportunity to improve ourselves. We have to try new things and learn novel skills to modify ourselves. Soon, we emerge once again back in to society when things calm back down. Till then we have to stay at home, transform ourselves and save others lives.

 

by: Hira Gull

Tags: isolation & social distancing, Life

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