Public health expert: getting outdoors is a good idea, as long as you maintain social distancing
As Minnesota begins to thaw out, one Mayo Clinic expert is reminding the public that — even with the governor’s stay-at-home order in effect — it is still a good idea to get outside and spend some time in the sun.
Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a pediatric infectious disease and public health expert, says things like running, biking and hiking are all things that people should be able to do while also observing social distancing requirements.
And continuing to stay active, she says, is not only permitted under the governor’s executive order (as long as you do not congregate with others living outside of your home), it can also be good for your mental health.
“We would recommend going outside, getting exercise, getting sunlight … especially with people’s worries and anxieties about what is going on, which is completely expected, those things might help,” she said.
Dr. Rajapakse also noted that social distancing does not have to mean social isolation. She emphasized the importance of staying connected with friends and family members through virtual communication.
Supporting small businesses
While Dr. Rajapakse does recommend staying home as much as possible right now to avoid further transmission of the coronavirus, she did point out situations in which it is possible to support area businesses.
“If you are in a financial position to continue supporting local businesses, we are encouraging people to do that,” Dr. Rajapakse said in a recent interview. “Ordering carry-out or delivery from a local restaurant is considered low-risk, so people can continue to do that. Also, buying gift cards online, using services like grocery delivery — those are things that reduce the risk for you and the people there.”
Of course, if you do leave your home for exercise or another essential activity, you are encouraged to wash your hands rigorously and remain at least six feet apart from the nearest person. The CDC is also now encouraging Americans to wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
Sean Baker is a Rochester journalist and the founder of Med City Beat.
