{"id":246,"date":"2020-05-16T12:39:51","date_gmt":"2020-05-16T12:39:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.byarsdental.com\/blog\/?p=246"},"modified":"2020-06-16T12:43:44","modified_gmt":"2020-06-16T12:43:44","slug":"germ-free-greetings-dentist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.byarsdental.com\/blog\/2020\/05\/germ-free-greetings-dentist\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Low-Contact, Germ-Free Greetings Really Safer?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"twoIt seems like in a split-second, COVID-19 has changed countless daily lives. Now that people are safely getting back out into the world while following the CDC\u2019s recommendation, you\u2019ll notice a few things changing when you go to your dentist\u2019s office<\/a> or get to see your regular bank clerk again. One of the most prevalent safety precautions being taken is to continue social distancing and make no contact whenever possible. If you\u2019re a hugger or love to give a handshake to show your respect and excitement, this is for you. Read on to learn a few germ-free greetings that you can swap out for your usual hug, and how limiting your contact with others\u2019 in public can help keep you safe.<\/p>\n

The Spread of COVID-19<\/h2>\n

COVID-19 is a virus that\u2019s spread via droplet transfer from an infected person to a non-infected person. When someone who has contracted the virus coughs, sneezes, or even talks loudly without a mask, their saliva droplets can travel over six feet in the area they\u2019re facing. They can litter surrounding people and surfaces, which others can touch. When the non-infected person touches their face, like their eyes, nose, and mouth, the infected droplets can spread to the mucous membrane, causing them to now be infected.<\/p>\n

According to WHO, it\u2019s estimated that 80 percent of COVID-positive patients are either asymptomatic or only show mild symptoms. This is why the CDC recommends that everybody continues wearing a mask while in public and continues to social distance.<\/p>\n

Hug Alternatives<\/h2>\n

Many businesses, such as your dental practice, have implemented a no handshake or hug policy that could cause you to make an awkward entrance after months of not seeing another person. Instead of putting out your hand and then quickly retracting it once you remember the policy, try putting into practice some of these hug alternatives that will help you express your excitement about visiting their office again:<\/p>\n