These images of matches perfectly illustrate how we can help stop coronavirus from spreading
As coronavirus — which results in the respiratory disease COVID-19 — continues to spread around the world, talk of social distancing is dominating the news cycle.
It's clear that some people, such as the many Americans who continued to hit up bars over the weekend, still don't understand the importance of avoiding crowds and keeping at least three feet of space between yourself and others, but government officials and healthcare professionals believe that social distancing is the key to slowing the spread of this virus.
In an effort to help everyone see just how critical social distancing can be during this tumultuous time, people are creating helpful visual aids using matches.
A popular video shared to Instagram by artist @juan_delcan shows a row of matches burning. Once the first match is lit the flame quickly spreads to those nearby, but as soon as one of the matches (with legs) steps out of line the fire becomes contained.
The increased space between the matches helps stop the fire from spreading, just as social distancing will help stop germs from spreading. The visual representation is a stark and clear reminder of why it's so crucial for people — even those who feel healthy and might not be experiencing any coronavirus symptoms — to stay home when possible and limit exposure to groups.
Related Video: Social distancing could be our best weapon against coronavirus
A similar photo of matches is being shared on social media — often with the caption, "This photo has been shared by doctors in Greece. 'The one who stayed away saved them all.'"
Again, there's a row of burnt matches, one match removed from the line, and all of the matches beyond it saved from the scorch.
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The match concept has inspired a number of Instagram artists to create their own versions of the images. They're now being shared in an effort to encourage isolation and hopefully "flatten the curve."
Social distancing not only limits the spread of germs, but it also allows medical professionals to properly care for those already diagnosed with the virus (without an overwhelming influx of new cases).
For all you fans of match visuals out there, here's what social distancing should look like.
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We understand that social distancing can be lonely, so here are some helpful tips to make isolation more enjoyable.
Topics Health Social Media COVID-19
Nicole is a Senior Editor at Mashable. She primarily covers entertainment and digital culture trends, and in her free time she can be found watching TV, sending voice notes, or going viral on Twitter for admiring knitwear. You can follow her on Twitter @nicolemichele5.
