Is ‘social distancing’ the wrong term?

Thursday 30 April 2020

The World Health Organisation has switched from using the term ‘social distancing’ to ‘physical distancing’ amid mental health concerns...should the Government of Jersey follow suit?

While many mental health campaigners support the change in terminology, suggesting that it can be misleading, there are concerns that a switch could cause confusion.

The change was adopted by WHO to highlight the importance of staying socially connected during the pandemic, while still adhering to physical distancing guidelines.

In a WHO Q&A video, infectious disease epidemiologist Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, explained why the health authority thinks ‘physical distancing’ was a more suitable phrase.

Video: In a Q&A held in March, WHO's Dr Maria Van Kerkhove explained why we should be using the term 'physical distancing'. 

“What we really mean is a physical separation from one another, but you can still remain socially connected. People will need to stay home for some time, and we need to find ways to stay connected with our family and friends," she said.

The term ‘social distancing’, however, is still widely used by governments and media outlets.

Jersey's Consultant Cardiologist and Chief Clinical Information Officer, Dr Andrew Mitchell, thinks that should change.

In a post on Twitter, he asked the Government to start using the term ‘physical distancing’ instead.

“We can still be social if we physically distance,” he wrote. “There is a big difference and it will help people as we move forward.”

Can we start using the term “physical distancing” please @GovJersey? We can still be social if we physically distance. There is a big difference and it will help people as we move forward #wellness #mentalhealth #covid19

— Dr Andrew Mitchell (@mitcharj) April 27, 2020

Mental health advocate Deputy Kevin Pamplin told Express that he felt “switch in terminology could go against one of the main principles of effective risk communication, which is to ensure there is clarity and consistency in messaging.”

However, he added that in hindsight, ‘physical’ distancing is the “better phrase” to use.

"I think as we see a subtle change from our medical and clinical experts especially in mental health using this phrasing when supporting those who need it, it will have the desired effect," he said.

The Deputy continued: "As we all know, the main way people have been able to communicate is via social media - Zoom and other online platforms have been a lifeline to families and those caring for people... It's so important to remain physically separate but socially connected."

Pictured: People are urged to use technology to stay connected to friends and family. 

He added: "The importance of being more kind and reaching out is invaluable right now."

Express has contacted the government for its view on the terminology and is awaiting a response.

The reminder that islanders should stay social while remaining physically distant comes as Jersey Police has reported a surge in welfare calls since the island went into lockdown on 30 March. 

Detective Superintendent Stewart Gull said it was important for the community to act as “eyes and ears” for the Police and to get in touch if they have any concerns for vulnerable islanders.