When you head out to go shopping, visit your favorite restaurant or just go about your daily life – there are a few things you should always have handy to help limit the spread of germs:

Face Covering or Mask

One of the most important things you can carry with you today is a face covering or mask. Wearing a mask helps stop your respiratory droplets from spreading in the air. If everyone wears a mask, the chance of getting COVID-19 is greatly reduced. Masks can also be used as a clean cloth to scratch your face or wipe your nose.

Hand Sanitizer

Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water is the most effective way to get coronavirus and other germs off your hands. But, when you’re out and about, finding a sink isn’t always easy. If your hands aren’t visibly dirty, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Check the FDA’s website to make sure the sanitizer you use isn’t one of the brands that may contain a toxic substance.

Sanitizing Wipes

A travel-sized pack of sanitizing wipes can come in handy when you need to wipe down a shopping cart or keypad before using it. You can also use these wipes to clean off your phone before using it.

Tissues

Tissues are like the duct-tape of a pandemic. They have a number of uses, including:

• Covering a cough or sneeze
• Inserting into the top of a cloth face covering to help limit fogging
• Using as a clean cloth to itch your face or wipe your nose
• Using as a one-time barrier when opening a door or touching a button

Contactless Payment Method

Having a cell phone or smartwatch capable of contactless payments helps create one less contact point where COVID-19 can be spread.

With many aspects of life entering a new normal, a little preparation and planning can help you and your family stay safe from COVID-19.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.