Coronavirus Supply List: How to Prepare for a Quarantine
by Krystal Clark
| 2 min read
With cases of the COVID-19 continuing to spread, officials are advising households to create a plan for how they would protect the health of themselves and their family. In the event you would need to self-quarantine or if you’re just trying to avoid going out in public to lower your risk of getting sick, there are items that you should consider keeping on hand. Anyone can contract COVID-19 but older adults and people with serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease are at a higher risk of complications. The virus is spread through person-to-person contact, contaminated surfaces and respiratory droplets, produced by a cough or sneeze. Vulnerable individuals are encouraged to stay home and stock up on supplies in case of a potential outbreak. If an outbreak does occur, every home should have the following items to prepare for the possibility of self-quarantine or if you are home sick for several weeks:
- Food: Buy shelf-stable foods that are easy to prepare, like dry and canned goods and frozen fruits and vegetables. This can also include beans, peanut butter, granola, dried fruit, pasta, tuna and oats. Aim for at least 14 days of food for each member of the household – and don’t forget your pets.
- Medications: Check prescriptions to ensure you have at least a 30-day supply. Also, stock up on over-the-counter pain relievers and remedies like Aspirin, vitamins, electrolytes and cold and flu medicines.
- First-Aid Kit: Aside from medications, every home should have a first-aid kit to treat small injuries. It should include band aids, gauze, ointment, antiseptic wipes, a cold compress, a thermometer, tweezers and an emergency blanket.
- Cleaning Supplies: Your home should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. In addition to household supplies like rubber gloves, laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid and garbage bags, you’ll need disinfectants to clean household surfaces. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has a list of commercial cleaning productsthat qualify for use against the new coronavirus.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Have basic toiletries like soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, feminine supplies, toilet paper and paper towel. If you have small children, purchase additional diapers and wipes.
The CDC recommends that people wear face masks in public settings. Other preventive measures include getting vaccinated, regular handwashing and staying home when sick. For up-to-date information on COVID-19 from MIBluesPerspectives.com, click here. This post was updated January 17, 2022. More from MIBluesPerspectives.com:
- How to Self-Quarantine During the Coronavirus Outbreak
- Strategies to Manage Your Coronavirus Stress and Anxiety
- How to Access Telehealth Care During the Coronavirus Outbreak
Photo credit: Aja Koska
