The initial comment I would like to add is that it is important at this time that people do not panic. The best outcome is if everyone is able to calmly do their bit to slow the spread of the virus so that healthcare systems and supply chains are not overwhelmed.
The time for containment is long past; the game is now to control the spread and slow it as much as possible.
Practicing some basic hygiene steps like:
- thoroughly washing your hands (20 seconds minimum)
- coughing/sneezing into the crook of your arm
- avoiding touching your face whenever possible
- minimising direct physical contact with other people (i.e. wave, tip your hat or bow as a greeting instead of shaking hands)
will help to slow the spread.
Additional suggestions are to buy a little bit more than usual on your regular shopping trips. Obviously, please be responsible and don't buy out the entire stock of toilet paper, but it is a good idea to try to reduce your number of shopping trips and exposure to large crowds. If you can shop fortnightly instead of weekly, that will aid in slowing the spread.
Supply chains will slowly be affected, but the impact on the supply of most products can be managed by shopping responsibly and not triggering panic buyouts. Additionally, the more that the virus can be slowed, the less supply chains will be disrupted.
I would recommend that people have 2 to 4 weeks' worth of supplies on hand in case they are required to self-quarantine. Months' worth of supplies just risks wastage as well as depriving others who might need the supplies as well. It is also worth noting that it is generally not helpful to buy up masks, as they are ineffective unless correctly fitted and are of far more help to medical staff in most instances (exceptions would be for high-risk individuals, such as 70+ or badly compromised immune systems). Most masks are far more effective at preventing sick people from spreading illness than at protecting healthy individuals. Mask manufacturing takes time and if not carefully managed, many national stockpiles will be depleted before the pandemic is over.
For Australia, at least (I assume it would be similar in other countries), anyone who suspects they may have COVID19 is encouraged to call ahead rather than just turning up at the GP clinic or hospital. Many facilities are not equipped to isolate/quarantine suspected cases and by calling ahead, you can be directed to the appropriate location for testing.
