Monday March 2, 2020 ~ NATIONAL
~ West Shore Voice News
Health Canada says that as part of COVID-19 preparation, that it’s a good idea to stock up on household essentials. But they hope people will avoid panic-buying.
“At this time, it makes sense to fill your cupboards with non-perishable food items, so that you do not need to go shopping if you become sick,” says Health Canada on their COVID-19 preparedness page.
The idea is that it’s easier on the supply chain if people gradually build up their household stores instead of making large-scale purchases all at once. To do this, you can add a few extra items to your grocery cart every time you shop. Good options are easy-to-prepare foods like:
- dried pasta and sauce
- canned soups
- canned vegetables and beans
It is also a good idea to have extra stores of:
- pet food
- toilet paper, paper towel and facial tissue
- batteries and plug-in requirements
- feminine hygiene products
- diapers (if you have children who use them)
The reason for stockpiling these items is not necessarily because you will need to self-isolate. Having these supplies on hand will ensure you do not need to leave your home at the peak of the outbreak or if you become ill.
To avoid unnecessarily additional possible exposure to viruses including COVID-19, Health Canada suggests doing your grocery shopping at off-peak hours.
=== LINKS:
Health Canada – COVID-19 website | Being Prepared
BC Centre for Disease Control – with COVID-19 updates
BC Health news releases on COVID-19 as posted on the Island Health website