There have been a lot of jokes about the people hoarding toilet paper. By the way, that needs to stop. Now. Really. Stop.
But that hoarding “reflex” comes from a good place. We all want to take care of our families, friends, ourselves. And while there has been a lot of scary information floating around, buying toilet paper seems like a rational and easy way to take back a little bit of control. But stop. Now.
Now is the time to double down on the really essential ways that we can help stop this virus and get back to our normally crazy lives. So – do this instead.
- Wash your hands longer.
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Don’t hoard – but do buy a bit of extra food that you could eat IF you were to become ill. Some soups that might be soothing and easy for other family members to prepare. Some canned or frozen vegetables. Freeze a couple of loaves of bread. Just think of making it easy on yourself – not that it is time to crawl into the bunker and lock the door for a few years!
- If you have prescriptions, get an extra 30 day supply if you can. Don’t panic if you can’t – but it would be good to have a little wiggle room and less reason to run to the store or doctor.
- Don’t touch your face or other people’s faces.
- Don’t sneeze on people. Cover your mouth. Teach your kids to cover their mouths. Maybe you just have an allergy – but it’s gross and the other person could be put into a panic. Cover your mouth.
- For now, avoid large groups that are crowded together closely. We are all going to have parties all over the place once this dies down. But for now, just be prudent.
- Be especially respectful of elderly people. They are at high risk. So wash your hands, don’t shake hands, and ask them if there is anything that they need or that would be helpful so they don’t have to get out for a little bit.
- If you are elderly or have preexisting conditions, be kind to yourself and take a hiatus from all that you do for others. Just stay safe so we can keep you around!
- Don’t panic. Don’t be complacent. Both extremes are harmful in this type of situation. Be sensible and responsible. You got this!
