I want to go on a bit of a rant here. I have heard this phrase so much. Whenever families have other families over at each other’s houses.

“Oh we know them, it’s fine”.

When friends meet up at hang out, with no mask and not practicing social distancing.

“We’re close friends, it’s ok”

Even when extended family see each other.

“They’re family, it’s fine”

Do these people really think that knowing a person will save them from the virus. That COVID doesn’t spread if you are personally close to that person or family? Even if the people you are visiting are extended family, there is still great risk. All the people involved have family members who are going to different grocery stores and other outings, and bringing bacteria home. I have visited my grandparents twice since COVID-19 broke out. They sat on their porch with masks and my family sat on the far edge of their lawn, also wearing masks. I go on walks with one of my friends to keep my sanity and to get exercise. We both wear masks and walk on opposite sides of the road. I don’t see these people who say “we know them” taking any precautions.

Also, why do people sit so close together when they have masks. As if masks cancels out social distancing. Its not one or the other. You must social distance and wear masks. Sneeze and cough droplets can travel up to 10 feet and recent studies suggest the virus can survive in the air for some time. All people involved wearing masks prevent these droplets from going in the air and protect everyone else from one’s germs. Smh 🤦🏻‍♀️