Going Out in Public During COVID-19: Should I Be Nervous?
Venturing outside of your home during the COVID-19 pandemic can be daunting, but for most people, it is necessary. The more prepared you are for your trip out of the house, the lower your risk of exposure to COVID-19 will be, resulting in a less stressful experience.
Arm Yourself with the Essentials
Wear a mask
In settings where social distancing may be difficult, wear a cloth mask to protect your nose and mouth. Just like the social distancing guidelines essential businesses are following, the CDC recommends wearing a cloth face covering in public settings. You may find that most businesses require visitors to wear a face covering in order to enter. Even in areas where you may not expect to be within six feet of others, be prepared by carrying a face covering with you in case of any unexpected close contact, like passing your neighbor on a walk around the block. You can create your own cloth face covering by using items you already have at home.
Sanitize surfaces and hands
Keep a container of sanitizing wipes in your car for pumping gas, using a shopping cart, and opening door handles. If you’re on a walk or at work, throw sanitizing wipes in a zip-lock bag to have on hand in your pocket or purse. When you return home from being out in public, wash your hands for 20 seconds - the equivalent of singing “happy birthday” twice. Between errands, keep hand sanitizer with you to ensure your hands are clean until you return home.
Maintain six feet of separation
The CDC recommends keeping 6 feet of distance between others to prevent the spread of COVID-19.2 Fortunately, essential businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies provide distancing visuals with employees managing the number of shoppers in stores at one time.
You can shop confidently for the essential items like groceries and prescriptions that you and your family need knowing that essential employees are there to help enforce social distancing and want to return home healthy-- just like you. Have your grocery coupons and discount Rx card ready for speedy checkout to reduce your time in stores.
Call Ahead
Accommodating Shopping Hours
If you have underlying health concerns or are elderly, before leaving your home, contact businesses to inquire about specific operating hours for a safer visit. Many essential businesses are offering accommodating shopping hours for elderly and vulnerable guests to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure.
Curbside Pickup and Home Delivery
Reduce your time away from home by calling essential businesses to confirm curbside pickup or drive-thru operations. When ordering takeout, most restaurants will bring your food right to your car, eliminating the need to go inside. Home delivery is also an option. Many businesses are offering delivery options for customers. Many pharmacies are even offering medication delivery right to your door.
You can save time and find the best Rx prices with America’s Pharmacy. Use our online search tool to find your medication. You can easily compare prices at local pharmacies or find options to have your medication delivered to your home directly from America’s Pharmacy.
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