Safely shopping for groceries during COVID-19 outbreak

covid grocery shoppingThe COVID-19 outbreak has changed our way of life in more ways than one, including how we grocery shop. Over the past few weeks we have been told to social distance, stay at home, and work from home if possible, but that doesn’t change the fact that we have to eat.

Whether you choose to shop online or head out to the store, here are the best tips for conscious and safe grocery shopping:

Before you go

Planning is key

  • Sit down once every ten days (or more) and create a comprehensive shopping list of ingredients for the next weeks planned out meals, to avoid having to visit the stores for last-minute ingredients.

Consider delivery

  • If possible, utilize a delivery service. Getting groceries delivered helps reduce spread of COVID-19 from people who are infected but don’t show symptoms, and also reduces the number of people going into stores, which makes it easier to follow social distancing rules. If you can’t get delivery, try shopping at off-peak hours.

DON’T bring the whole family

  • Governor Andy Beshear recently ordered that only one adult per household go grocery shopping at a time to reduce the number of people in stores at one time. In addition, leave children at home if at all possible. Children tend to touch more surfaces without realizing it, and may inadvertently pick up more germs.

DON’T go if you are sick

  • It is very important that you don’t go to the store if you are experiencing any symptoms, such as a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or if you believe you have been exposed to the virus.

At the store

Make sure to sanitize

  • Make sure to wipe down your cart with a disinfectant wipe and use hand sanitizer before entering the store and after leaving.

Wear a mask

Practice social distancing

  • Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others. If you see your friends or family, give them a wave or a nod, but avoid hugs and handshaking.

Utilize contactless payment options

  • Apple or Google Pay is your safest option. If you do not have those services or your grocery store does not accept that form of payment, use a credit or debit card and avoid cash.

DON’T touch your eyes, nose or mouth!

When you get home

Wash your hands immediately!

  • The CDC recommends washing your hands with hot water and soap for 20-seconds.

Rinse your produce

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Article by: UofL Physicians

UofL Physicians is the largest, multi-specialty physician practice in the Louisville area, serving Shepherdsville, Shelbyville and beyond. This means The Power of U is in YOUR community. As the clinical practice arm of UofL Health, we offer more than 80 sub-specialties from more than 700 primary care and specialty providers, treating patients of all ages. Many of our physicians are also professors and researchers at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, teaching tomorrow’s physicians, leading research in new innovative medical advancements and bringing progressive, innovative, state-of-the-art health care to every patient.

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