Why More Experts Prefer 'Physical Distancing' Over 'Social Distancing'

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, public health officials around the globe have zeroed in on one action to slow the spread of the virus: social distancing. But now, some experts are swapping that phrase for another that they say more accurately defines the concept.

"We're changing to say ‘physical distance,’ and that's on purpose because we want people to still remain connected,” Maria Van Kerkhove, an epidemiologist with the World Health Organization (WHO), said at a recent WHO press conference.

The coronavirus is thought to spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, which is why keeping at least 6 feet of space from one another is “absolutely essential” to prevent infection, Van Kerkhove explained. “But it doesn't mean that, socially, we have to disconnect from our loved ones, from our family.”

Remaining socially connected while physically distant

Sociologist Jennie Brand is a champion of WHO's change. Social distancing “usually conveys some kind of individualism, social disconnection and often exclusion,” Brand said. And during a time when anxieties are running high, preserving social connections has never been more important.

"The term ‘social distance’ doesn't necessarily convey that strong point that we really want to maintain social cohesion, social inclusion and maintain our social relationships,” said Brand, a professor of sociology and statistics and director at the California Center for Population Research at UCLA. Replacing it with the phrase “physical distancing,” however, is “an important distinction just to drive home that people need connectedness right now,” she added.

One way to stay in touch with friends and family during a time of physical separation is with technology. A quick email, text, phone call or video chat “can help you and your loved ones feel less lonely and isolated,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. Sending letters or care packages in the mail is another way to keep relationships strong.