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COVID-19
PANDEMIC Responding to Those Who Ignore Social Distancing
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directly responsible for the spread of COVID-19 in their respective distancing orders are more likely to be followed when there is par-
communities. Demonizing and admonishing the behaviors of one ticipation and buy-in from the community. Encourage people to
group of people while simultaneously promoting a different narra- be stakeholders in their own health and the health of their neigh-
tive surrounding identical behavior performed by other groups is un- borhoods to foster the flourishing of productive behaviors during
fair, dangerous, and a tributary to the cycle of bias and discrimination this pandemic and beyond.
that pervades medicine and society. Entreat neighbors to hold other neighbors accountable rather
Defiance of social distancing is a widespread obstacle perpetrated than threatening police involvement. Encourage the placement of
by individuals of all creeds, colors, and nationalities. Whether it’s pre-printed or custom-made lawn signs, which can be used to show
encroaching upon the six feet barrier or failing to wear a face mask support and unity in shared struggle and triumph. If you or your
in public, as Texas and other states begin to reopen, it is inevitable neighbor has a mask-making kit or the necessary supplies to sew
that we will soon observe an increase in the number of people fabric masks, make masks for neighbors who may need one and
whose public performance violates measures to prevent COVID- leave it on their doorstep. Free instructions and sewing patterns are
19 spread. This behavior is problematic, regardless of who the of- widely available online. And last, but certainly not least, model ap-
fenders are. In place of admonition of these offenders, we could propriate behavior. Whether it is taking a walk around the block
position them as the subjects of our concern. Demonstrating com- with a face mask on or having a chat from a recommended mini-
passion and concern for another’s wellbeing is more likely to result mum distance of at least 6 feet, visible adherence to social distancing
in a favorable outcome. guidelines encourages community backing of these policies.
It is easy to become frustrated with people who exhibit noncha-
Rather than adopting a “do as I say” approach, join lance about preventing the spread of COVID-19, potentially pro-
forces with communities to make the fight against longing the return of life as we once knew it. Nonetheless, we must
COVID-19 collaborative. fight the urge to belittle and instead respond with unbiased empathy
and a spirit of collaboration, the true catalysts of change.
Fighting COVID-19 at the community level necessitates that
members of the community have ownership and investment in the Brittany R Johnson, MPH, MS is a DO Candidate, Class of 2023, at
health promotion and prevention activities that target them. Social the University of the Incarnate Word Medical School.

26 San Antonio Medicine • June 2020