While I wouldn’t classify myself as a germaphobe, the current pandemic has certainly nudged me closer to that territory. Once a firm believer in the “five-second rule,” I now find myself feeling a bit paranoid. It’s challenging not to, especially with the sense that an unseen threat lies in the air around us. Even a simple walk can feel a tad rebellious, as if we’re inhaling tainted air with every breath.
But let’s sift through the anxiety and focus on the facts. The CDC has confirmed that the novel coronavirus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Recent studies indicate that it may also be transmitted through talking, singing, or even breathing. While the virus can linger on surfaces for hours or even days, the risk of transmission through surfaces is considered low, particularly regarding deliveries, take-out, and grocery items. The greatest threat comes from close interactions with others.
According to Dr. Mark Thompson, a microbiologist at the University of California, the virus doesn’t thrive outside of a host for long. After a couple of days, it becomes nearly undetectable on surfaces like the fruit or vegetables that may have come into contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets. “Time really works in your favor here,” Dr. Lisa Hamilton, an infectious disease expert at Stanford University, emphasized in a recent interview. After about 24 hours, most of the virus is no longer viable, and after 72 hours, it’s generally undetectable on most surfaces.
While it’s crucial to take precautions — such as social distancing, wearing masks, and practicing good hygiene — it is possible to go overboard. For instance, excessively cleaning produce can actually be counterproductive. “If produce is contaminated and you touch it, then your face, you risk infection,” noted Dr. Clara Jacobs, a food safety expert. However, the risk from food is low since transmission would require touching a specific contaminated spot and then your face before washing your hands.
Experts advise against using disinfecting wipes, alcohol, or bleach on your fruits and vegetables. These practices are unnecessary and can even be harmful. Instead, rinse all produce under water, just as you should have been doing before the pandemic. Although some videos suggest disinfecting produce, experts agree that it’s not necessary and none of them are doing this at home.
Another common misconception is the effectiveness of gloves. Dr. Emily Carter, a virologist at the University of Washington, pointed out the pitfalls of wearing gloves in public. “Many people wear them all day, touching phones and food without realizing they’re spreading germs,” she explained. A better approach is to avoid touching your face while shopping and use hand sanitizer immediately after leaving the store. Once you’re home, washing your hands again after putting away groceries is sufficient.
You can also skip changing clothes or showering after a grocery run. “I don’t fully decontaminate after shopping,” Dr. Carter said. “I wash my hands, but I’m not rolling on the floor with my clothes.” Of course, parents of young children may want to take extra precautions since little ones are often less mindful of hygiene.
What’s critical to understand is that the primary risk associated with shopping isn’t the food itself, but the interactions with others. “The likelihood of contracting the virus from surfaces is minimal compared to exposure to respiratory droplets in crowded areas,” Dr. Jacobs added.
To mitigate risks while shopping, aim to be quick and efficient. Have a list prepared to minimize backtracking and seek out stores that limit the number of shoppers allowed inside. This may result in lines outside, but it helps maintain social distancing.
Additionally, consider these expert tips:
- Wear a mask, as the CDC now recommends everyone do so in public settings.
- Shop solo whenever possible to reduce the number of people in the store.
- Use hand sanitizer liberally on your cart and hands before and after shopping.
- Avoid using your phone while shopping, as it can bring your hands close to your face.
- Maintain distance from cashiers or opt for self-checkout to minimize contact.
- If possible, order groceries online for delivery, ensuring to tip generously for the service.
In summary, while it’s essential to remain cautious during these times, it’s equally important to discern between necessary precautions and excessive measures. The focus should be on protecting yourself and others while maintaining a balanced approach to hygiene.
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