COVID-19 has led to the quarantining and self-isolation of individuals everywhere, disrupting daily lives. However, one does still need to buy food during this pandemic which brings up an interesting question: do you need to wear a mask when going to the grocery store? Here’s why you should and how it will affect your experience as a shopper.
Who It Helps
Does wearing a mask prevent you from getting sick? Unfortunately, wearing a mask does not necessarily mean that you won’t get sick. However, because you might be an asymptomatic carrier, you can infect other people if you don’t wear a mask. Wearing a mask filters the air that you exhale, making it less likely to infect others. By wearing a mask, you decrease the chances of infecting someone else, especially those who are in the at-risk group. Make sure you follow the proper steps to put on a mask before you go out. Masks are less effective if they are put on incorrectly.
What Kind of Mask You Should Wear
With guidelines from the CDC encouraging all people to wear a mask, it begs the question of what kind of mask should one wear? Will any mask do? P95 respirators are the type of masks used by medical professionals and are in short supply currently due to this pandemic. Even surgical masks are in short supply. The public has been encouraged to not go out and buy these types of masks. However, you can make your own homemade mask from cloth. You can even simply use a bandana or a scarf to cover your face while you shop.
How it Affects Your Shopping Experience
While it may not be comfortable for you to wear, and it might make you self-conscious, and it might make your face sweat, others around you will be grateful that you are trying to do your part. When speaking through a mask, be considerate and speak up because others may not hear you because the mask is blocking your face. Wearing a mask will affect your shopping experience, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Remember that you’re not wearing a mask for yourself.
You can do your part to help prevent the spread. Any little bit, including simply using a bandana, helps. By doing your part, you can help others have a less stressful shopping experience.
Here’s another article you might like: How to Guarantee Your Family’s Financial Security During Uncertain Times
