Post COVID Life: The Rise of Non-Verbal Behavior
posted by Shakenna Moore | October 23, 2023 | In OpinionHave you noticed that since COVID began, the way that you see others has changed?
Previously, when someone coughed into their hands, or sneezed without covering their mouth while grabbing a door handle, you thought that was kind of disgusting, but you let it slide. Now, no one gets a pass. They get the side-eye, a frown, and the stare down. You show them all of the non-verbal behavior that you can, without actually saying the words. The rules of engagement have changed, and the non-verbal cues have taken off to a whole new level.
Recently, I was at a doctor’s office and as we walked through the door, heads turned to watch us come in, then quickly turned back to what they were doing. Couples continued to talk, single individuals continued to look at their phones. Per recommendation of the facility, people are sitting 2-3 chairs apart. Due to the limited amount of space, you could tell the people waiting seemed a bit uncomfortable. They began to readjust themselves in their seats but continued as they were.
As we waited, you could hear the T.V. in the background, multiple low sounding conversations, and sudden coughs here and there. As you can imagine, everyone’s eyes focused on the person coughing.
It’s like everyone had the same thoughts in their heads: “Who the heck is coughing like that? Is it coronavirus? Did they cover their mouths and sanitize their hands?”
I recognize that not everyone believes that COVID is still a big deal and that they don’t need to maintain proper hygiene to decrease the risk of the spread of the virus, but consider this a friendly reminder.
According to the C.D.C.: “Activities like coughing, singing, shouting, or breathing heavily due to exertion increase the risk of transmission.”
Let’s continue to wear masks and be mindful of others. Safety over convenience!
Photo courtesy of Prachatai
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