Despite the Coronavirus outbreak, public parks remain open in Northern Nevada, at least for right now. Some people are flocking to parks in an effort to deal with cabin fever from self-isolation. But not everyone seems to be sticking to health recommendations concerning social distancing.
Friday seemed like a good day for some fun at the Rancho San Rafael Park, but few people seem to be respecting social distancing.
“Out of the blue you have to keep the 6 foot distance. I’m here with my nephew. I’m used to being a close proximity to him, so that difference has made a lot of change in the way that we are supposed to interact,” said Jordan Christean who is visiting the park with his nephew.
Many people have come to the park for the same reasons: to stay in shape with gyms closed or get a break from self-isolation. Notices at the park tell people to stay 6 feet apart at all times, but few are heeding what they say.
“In the outdoors being 6 feet away from each other is probably less likely to actually get viral contact compared to the fact that we live together,” said Aidan Manning who is visiting the park with his roommate.
“We came here to gather with our cousins. We told them there was some distancing that they needed to do. Unfortunately they are kids, so that didn’t go as planned,” said Carlos Quintana who is visiting the park with his family.
“I think we are okay out here,” said Sandy Zoerner who is walking her dog at the park.
When it comes to hand-washing and using hand sanitizers, everyone seems to be doing so. But people are crowding together to see dogs play or sit with family or friends. They seem to think that it's okay. But there are plenty of cases where the virus has spread between family and friends. So people need to observe social distancing, no matter who it is. That’s something Jordan Christean is still trying to teach his nephew.
“I’m kind of trying to turn it into a positive thing. It gives me more time to be outdoors. If I can keep my distance away from people and keep myself healthy. Keep my immune system active and working, I feel like I have a better chance,” said Christean.
“You don't really think about that too much being in close proximity to somebody. Not until recently. So it’s fairly fresh,” said Riley Sims who is visiting the park with his uncle Jordan Christean.
