According to a story from Live Science, the ongoing coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic has upended daily life in a myriad of ways and can make leaving the house feel a little intimidating. But there are times when you will more or less have to venture out, such as when buying groceries. Grocery stores can feel like the perfect place to catch the virus. After all, everyone needs food, and even sick people may venture out to get groceries if they have no other option. Then there is of course the fact that a significant percentage of infected people may not have symptoms. In this story, we will review best practices for getting through your grocery trips virus-free.
Stuff You Should Know
One good thing to take solace in is that there is currently no evidence of COVID-19 being transmitted by food unless it is touched by an infected person. Therefore, most of the food in the store should be perfectly safe to handle. Additionally, most grocery stores have been taking extra precautions. These include sanitizing shopping carts and other surfaces, protective screens at cash registers, and limiting the capacity of stores to maintain physical distancing. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of these measures is solely based on the diligence of store management.
Here are some basic tips to consider:
- Do you really need to go? If you want to go to the store, make sure it is for a real need, like if you’re actually low on food. Make big trips to reduce how often you will have to go. This is safer for everyone and is ultimately the most responsible choice.
- Consider delivery. Are you in an area that offers grocery delivery? This might be your safest option and it is definitely the best choice if you are at a high risk of contracting the virus.
- Shop at off-peak times. If you can, try to get to the store at unusual times (such as early morning) when they are less likely to be busy. This reduces your chance of infection. Also avoid going to multiple stores if at all possible.
- Shop alone. If possible, don’t drag the entire household along to go shopping. If you have a partner at home, ask them to watch the kids while you’re gone. You don’t want them getting sick.
- If you feel sick, DON’T GO. If you need supplies, ask a friend to pick up and drop off some things for you. Don’t risk infecting others.
- Maintain CDC safety protocols. Avoid getting closer than six feet to other people, stop touching your face, wash your hands, and wear a mask.
- Rinse produce and wash any reusable bags.
It is possible to shop for groceries safely during the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. Just take as much precaution as possible.