Shopping During an Ebola Virus Outbreak - Helpful Tips to Stay Safe

Ebola is a deadly virus that causes severe illness in humans and animals. It is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of an infected person or animal. Shopping can be a potential risk for contracting the Ebola virus, especially if you come into contact with someone who is infected and if you are the type who prefer physical shopping like going to market places, malls or stores to buy things.

Helpful Tips to Stay Safe While Shopping During an Ebola Outbreak

• Stay Informed: The first step to staying safe is to stay informed about the Ebola outbreak in your area. Monitor the news for any updates or developments and follow the advice of local health authorities.

• Wear Protective Clothing: When shopping during an Ebola outbreak, it is important to wear protective clothing such as gloves, masks, and goggles. This will reduce your risk of coming into contact with the virus.

• Avoid Crowded Places: Try to avoid crowded places such as malls or markets, especially if there is an outbreak of Ebola in your area. If you must go to a crowded place, wear protective clothing and avoid touching surfaces as much as possible.

• Wash Your Hands Frequently: Ebola virus can be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces. Make sure to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching any surfaces.

• Carry Hand Sanitizer: In case you don't have access to soap and water, carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you at all times. Make sure the hand sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Don't Touch Your Face: Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. This is one of the most common ways that the Ebola virus can enter your body.

• Avoid Raw Meat: Ebola virus can be transmitted through the consumption of contaminated meat. Avoid eating raw meat or undercooked meat, especially bushmeat, during an outbreak.

• Avoid Contact with Sick People: If you come into contact with someone who is sick or showing symptoms of Ebola, avoid close contact and seek medical attention immediately.

• Practice Good Hygiene: Make sure to practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and disposing of tissues properly.

• Switch to Online Shopping: For your own safety and those around you, change your preference to shopping online during virus outbreaks and other epidemic diseases and not just only during an Ebola outbreak.

In summary, Ebola is a less discussed but deadly virus, and shopping during an outbreak can be risky, but by following these helpful tips, you can reduce your risk of contracting the virus. Stay informed, avoid crowded places, wash your hands frequently, wear protective clothing, practice good hygiene and switch to online shopping. Remember to seek medical attention if you suspect that you may have come into contact with the virus. Stay safe and stay healthy.