Social distancing generally means putting distance between you and others to slow the spread of an infectious disease, like the flu or COVID-19. It’s a public health method that helps avoid the transmission of contagious germs.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Preventing seasonal flu.
McBride, D. L. (2021). Social distancing for COVID-19 decreased infectious diseases in children. Journal of Pediatric Nursing.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (n.d.). COVID-19 guidance on social distancing at work.
Virol, J. (2009). Towards a sane and rational approach to management of Influenza H1N1 2009. Virology Journal.
World Health Organization. (2023). Q&A on coronaviruses (COVID-19).
Why trust our experts?
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Reviewed by:
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAPKaren Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.
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