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An expert guide to physical distancing – and what to do if friends and family
aren't onboard

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   Officials around the world say “physical distancing” is the key to
   slowing the spread of coronavirus. Are there any safe ways to
   socialize, and what do you do if you live with someone who’s throwing
   caution to the wind? We asked three experts for their thoughts.

What does physical distancing entail?

   Dr Arthur L Caplan: “Stay indoors, stay away from others as much as you
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   and it’s against the basic human instinct, but it’s what’s needed now.”

If my roommate or partner isn’t practicing physical distancing, how can I
protect myself?

   Tsai: “I would recommend that you would still follow the same physical
   distancing principles. The ultimate goal is to break the chain of
   transmission. If you can maintain your own distance sort of
   respectfully, then you can still minimize not just the risk to yourself
   but also the risk from you potentially transmitting to other friends
   and families in your social circle. Each individual is an opportunity
   to break that transmission. So even though others around you may be in
   less than ideal physical distancing scenarios, there’s an important
   individual obligation to do what you can within reasonable or social
   bounds.”

   Caplan: “Do your best to socially distance. Maybe don’t sleep in the
   same bed? Minimize sexual contact. Don’t share toothbrushes. Try to use
   separate things. You don’t want to be hugging and kissing. You always
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   living space – but if they won’t go along, get away.”

How do you recommend talking about social distancing with a partner or roommate?

   Tsai: “Explain that the goal is to decrease the risk of infecting a lot