Social distancing is putting physical space between you and other people. It is important to help slow the spread of coronavirus by minimising contact between potentially infected individuals and healthy individuals. Here’s what the HSE recommends:

DO

  • Keep a space of 2m (6.5ft) between you and other people.
  • Reduce interactions with people outside work and home.
  • Reduce the number of people you meet every day.
  • Avoid crowded places.
  • Work from home if possible, if you have off-farm work.

    • DON’T

  • Do not shake hands or make close contact with anyone else, where possible.

    • But what does it mean for farmers?

  • Stay at home and on the farm when you can.
  • Don’t have anyone in the tractor with you.
  • Instruct contractors by phone and have gates open for them.
  • Order feed, fertiliser and inputs by phone, to be delivered.

  • Avoid meeting the vet or AI man unless absolutely necessary.

  • Don’t meet delivery drivers or milk lorry drivers in person.
  • Send cheques by post or pay online.
  • Stay in touch with friends and relations by phone instead of visiting.
  • Keep the kids busy at home without meeting others.

  • If you have someone working with you on the farm, maintain the 2m physical distance.
  • Arrange for employees to bring their own lunch or go home for meals.
  • Order groceries by phone or online and collect them or have them delivered.

    • I’m older or at risk – what extra precautions can I take?

    You are more at risk of serious illness if you catch coronavirus and you:

  • Are 60 years of age and over. People over 75 are particularly vulnerable.
  • Have a long-term medical condition – for example, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, cancer or high blood pressure.
  • Have a weak immune system (immunosuppressed).

    • DO

  • Tell visitors not to visit if they have any symptoms of coronavirus.
  • Meet people in a well-ventilated room or outdoors.
  • Ask visitors to wash their hands properly.
  • Ask visitors to keep a space of at least 2m (6.5ft) between you and them.
  • Keep physically active, if possible.
  • Refill your prescription medications and have over-the-counter medicines and supplies, for example, tissues and a thermometer.
  • Make a joint plan with family, friends and neighbours on what to do if you become ill.
  • Stay at home if you are sick to help stop the spread of whatever infection you may have.

    • DON’T

  • Do not have any more than two visitors at a time to your home.
  • Do not shake hands with visitors.