Trying to figure out the safest way to get your grocery shopping done? What was once a routine chore has left a lot of Canadians second guessing themselves these days. The Lumino Health team compiled some tips from health professionals, the CDC, and the Public Health Agency of Canada on how to stay safe.
APRIL 16, 2020
By Emily Gilbert The situation around COVID-19 is rapidly evolving. Content in this article is as of the date posted and may be subject to change. Many people may be wondering how to get the groceries they need while avoiding germs. We’ve put together a few tips to stay safe while grocery shopping. We also look at some things you can do before you leave and when you get home. If you aren’t feeling well, it’s best not to go at all. Make sure to stay home if you feel sick or have a cough, fever or shortness of breath. Before you go When it comes to grocery shopping these days, try to go only if you really need to. If possible, go alone. This may help limit the number of people in the store. It can also lessen the chances of exposure by having just one member of your household do the shopping. Before leaving, make a shopping list. This way, you will be able to minimize the amount of time you spend in the store. In the store When you arrive at the grocery store, you may need to wait in line outside. Be sure to stand 6 feet apart at minimum between the person in front and behind you. When you get your shopping cart, wipe down the handle with disinfectant if you can. Some grocery stores are providing these at the front door. Once you’re in the store, keep your distance as much as possible from other people. This may mean having to wait for a few moments before going down the next aisle. While shopping, avoid touching your face. Shop with your eyes first. In other words, look at items on the shelf, rather than picking them up. This avoids touching extra surfaces unnecessarily. When your shopping is complete, remember to respect social distancing rules when in line for check out. And try to pay with touchless payment. If you do end it touching money, a card or a keypad, use hand sanitizer afterward. Regardless of how you pay, try to use hand sanitizer right after leaving the store. When you get home The first thing you should do when you get home? Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. What about when putting food away? Some professionals suggest unpacking groceries in a specific area, and then wiping that area with disinfectant. It also isn’t a bad idea to wash your reusable shopping bags regularly. (This can be beneficial any time, regardless of the pandemic). There is no evidence that suggests that food or food packaging has been linked to COVID-19, according to the CDC. One important thing to note when unpacking: if washing produce, rinse it with cold water only. Using soap and water on produce may cause vomiting or diarrhea. Should I wear a mask? The Public Health Agency of Canada has said that Canadians can opt to use non-medical masks. This is in addition to other social distancing practices when grocery shopping or at the pharmacy. According to Dr. Teresa Tam, “wearing a non-medical mask is an additional measure that you can take to protect others around you.” It is important to note that using a non-medical mask doesn’t necessarily provide protection to the person wearing it. Instead, it may protect those around them. Either way, continue to wash your hands regularly and to avoid touching your face when out.