If you’re reading this out of panic, well don’t. But that’s easier said than done especially when you have the President suspending travel in and out of the country’s capital (though there are exceptions).
[READ: “Not a lockdown”: Duterte imposes quarantine in Metro Manila]The best way to go about this situation now is to remain calm, logical and, of course, informed about the latest developments amid this pandemic (again, not a cue to panic.)
More helpful tips for home and the self:
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First, let’s make it clear that the lockdown is not restricting the delivery of food and other basic necessities to and from Metro Manila. And apart from the strict limit on alcohol buying (two bottles per customer), the Department of Trade and Industry is not enforcing a limit on other goods such as canned food, fresh produce, processed meats, sanitary products, etc.
But since social distancing may have you working at home and limiting your time outside, you might want to make the most out of that grocery run.
Pantry essentials
Fresh produce may not be the best buy if you’re aiming for longer storage life (unless you freeze them). Go for dry, canned, preserved and processed food items that could last for months. Here are some suggestions:
- Rice and other grains
- Dehydrated fruits
- Pasta
- Ramen noodles
- Flour
- Canned goods (fish, meatloaves, beans, mushrooms, sauces)
- Oils (olive oil, canola, lauric)
- Hard cheese
- Frozen goods (vegetables, nuggets, freeze-dried meat)
- Nuts and beans
- Cured meats
- Butter
- Peanut butter (lasts for years!)
- Broths and mixes
- Spices (dry herbs)
- Bottled condiments (vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce, ketchup, mayo, etc.)
- Wine and spirits
- Coffee and tea
- Bottled water
Sanitary needs
If work from home options are not available, and if you find yourself frequently going out of the house to run errands, you might want to build a formidable cabinet of cleaning agents along with sanitary essentials.
[READ: Why working from home is a needed precaution during the rise of COVID-19]Most people are gunning for alcohol solutions neglecting that it is only recommended when there is no nearby water source to wash your hands. At home, it is best to wash your hands thoroughly in running water with antibacterial soap or hand wash.
- Handsoap
- Surface cleaners (toilet cleaner, deodorizing sprays, bleach)
- Tissue
- Body wash
- Sanitary napkins
- Laundry detergent (experts suggest washing towels every three days and beddings every week)
Medicine
Medical supplies are important, too, because next to supermarkets, people are flooding pharmacies. Keep in mind to only purchase medicine and supplements that your family is now consuming and are in need of for maintenance especially for elders. For unexpected illnesses, be equipped with usual remedies for common issues like allergies, headaches, bodily aches, tummy troubles, etc.
Don’t forget to stockpile on first aid kit inclusions as well like bandages and antiseptic solution.
- For allergies
- Paracetamol
- For tummy aches (oral rehydration salts, loperamide)
- Vitamins
- Medicine for maintenance
Header photo courtesy of Inquirer.net
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Read more:
“Not a lockdown”: Duterte imposes quarantine in Metro Manila
Batanes to adopt a travel restriction policy in response to COVID-19
COVID-19 is now a pandemic. What does this mean?
Writer: CHRISTIAN SAN JOSE
