Significant Benefits of Social Distancing

08-20-2020

According to researchers from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, the implementation of social distancing policies corresponded with significant reductions in the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, both in the U.S. and globally, providing evidence that social distancing is a useful tool in preventing further spread of COVID-19.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, estimates that social distancing policies enacted nationally in 46 countries prevented an estimated 1.57 million cases of COVID-19 over a two-week period, representing a 65% reduction in new cases. The researchers suggest these data emphasize the significant benefits that can be achieved by individuals practicing social distancing measures.