Covid Etiquettes Set New Rules On Getting Along

National, September 2021: During lockdown with almost zero social interactions, Covid etiquettes did not play any major role in the life of the people. However, now with the lockdown over and open public spaces, people are confused about the new Covid etiquettes that need to be followed in the new normal. Etiquette which previously included only socializing has broadened itself to include new measures to mitigate the virus while ensuring proper socializing. Previously, etiquettes used to take plenty of time to get ingrained, however, the sudden onset of the virus has forced people to accept new manners overnight. In the current scenario, survival is demanding changes in the way we conduct ourselves and also, to be a part of a healthy society. Here are the renewed etiquettes designed for the Covid infected world in a social setup.

1. Drop the handshake 

Previously, wishing someone Good Morning with a firm handshake was considered proper manners but this rule does not apply anymore. Many people including the Western World have switched to folding hands together to say Namaste to greet each other. In addition to that, one can also say phrases like “I would love to shake hands but I guess we will have to wait until the Covid pandemic is over.”. This is not only warm but also provides an explanation for not shaking hands in a polite manner.

2. Avoid the hug

Old habits like dropping a hug when wishing someone Good Night is hard to kill. Therefore, one needs to be extra careful to avoid a hug. One way to avoid a hug is to maintain a social distance of six feet with the person. Maintaining this space indirectly sends a signal to the other person that he/she should not lunge at you for a hug because you are practising social distancing. Further, it is always a good idea to share your expectations right at the beginning of the meeting to ensure that any unexpected gestures are not made.

3. Get all the details about the social event invite 

With the restrictions of the lockdown lowered down, many friends and families are wanting to engage in gettogether. If you receive an invitation for any such social invite and you are confused about whether to attend it or not over safety concerns, it is a great idea that you ask for the details of the event. Make enquiries like whether it is an outdoor or indoor event, how many people would be there, are the following social distancing or not, whether the mask protocols will be followed or not and any other enquiry that will help you to decide whether the event is safe or not should be made.

4. Say no if you feel unsafe

Without even an ounce of guilt, you should be bold enough to say a strong no if you feel unsafe to attend any event. It is up to you whether you want to provide an explanation or not for declining the offer. Let no one lower down your guard and feel proud about the fact that you are taking responsibility to keep you and therefore, your loved ones safe.

5. Avoid a crowded place

People often visit crowded places only to complain about how crowded it is without realizing that they are part of the crowd. It is important to understand that the government is opening up public places to improve the economy of the country and not because the risk of exposure has been reduced. Therefore, it is wise to avoid crowded places until and unless it is extremely necessary. If by any chance, you have to visit a crowded place, ensure that you are not facing anyone to reduce the chances of exposure to the virus.

6. Use hand sanitiser frequently

As recommended by many health institutions and experts, when you are going out, ensure that you frequently sanitize your hands for 20 seconds. The new Covid etiquette demands you to wear a mask and sanitize your hands especially after touching a commonly touched surface. If required, carry gloves to touch commonly touched surfaces.

In addition to following these Covid etiquettes when stepping outside your house, do not forget to follow Covid etiquettes inside the house even when alone which includes taking a warm shower after coming back home and washing the clothes that you have worn outside.