Leading doctor reveals how much food and medicine you should have stored and explains why people should be working from home
- Victoria’s chief health office Dr Brett Sutton has revealed tips during COVID-19
- He said people should have two weeks of food and 60 days worth of medication
- Dr Sutton also urged businesses to start considering what to do with sick staff
- Coronavirus symptoms: what are they and should you see a doctor?
Australians should have at least two weeks worth of food and 60 days of medication as coronavirus becomes a pandemic, a leading doctor has said.
Victoria’s chief medical officer Dr Brett Sutton revealed the necessary precautions people should take on Saturday – three days after the World Health Organisation declared the deadly virus a pandemic.
He said it is time for people begin thinking about buying necessary supplies – such as food for themselves and their pets – should they need to self-isolate.
Victoria’s chief medical officer Dr Brett Sutton revealed the necessary precautions people should take on Saturday
‘That does not mean stockpiling – but planning sensibly as you shop,’ he told the Herald Sun.
‘Thinking about what extra items you’d like in your pantry and by shopping accordingly – for food such as non-perishables like dried fruit and nuts, canned foods and vegetables, beans, coffee, cereal, and pasta.’
He said people don’t need ‘too much’ – just two weeks of food and 60 days worth of medication.
His comments come following a shortage of supermarket staples such as toilet paper, long life milk and pasta.
Supermarkets were forced to introduce limits on some of the items due to a lack of stocks.
Dr Sutton said there is also a need for businesses to take steps as more cases of COVID-19 are inevitable.
His comments come following a shortage of supermarket staples such as toilet paper, long life milk and pasta
‘If the option exists, working from home is preferable. Staggering work hours to avoid public transport congestion is another important option,’ he said.
He said with widespread illness businesses need to plan for staff being away and hygiene measures.
Dr Sutton said these discussions should also be had with friends and family outside of the workplace.
Face masks are only a good measure for those who are sick to stop them from spreading the illness, according to Dr Sutton
He said while these measures won’t stop the spread, they could help prevent a ‘sharp spike’ in cases.
Dr Sutton said those free of symptoms are free to catch public transport, attend work and school.
He reiterated that anyone who is ill should stay home, practice good hygiene and listen to health advice updates.
Face masks are only a good measure for those who are sick to stop them from spreading the illness, according to Dr Sutton.
He said they are a valuable resource and should not be wasted.