The main method of the spread of COVID-19 is through person-to-person transfer via respiratory droplets.
This is why receiving mails, packages, and even home deliveries of groceries etc., is safer than personally going out to shop.
How to Be Super Careful?
The chances of the spread of the virus through home deliveries are low. To make yourself even safer, follow the following tips.
- Follow Hand Hygiene
Make sure to wash your hands after touching a potentially infected surface and before touching your face.
- Avoid Contact With the Deliveryman
Use digital methods of payment, whenever possible, and ask the deliveryman to leave the package at the gate for you to pick up later.
- Consider Isolating the Package
The virus can survive up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, less than 4 hours on copper and less than 24 hours on cardboard.
If you can, consider isolating the packages.
- Consider Using Wipes
Alcohol wipes can be used to wipe the surface; make sure you do not use wipes or chemicals on food.
- ConsiderHeating or Reheating
If the contents of the package are fit to do so, such as take-outs, you can heat or reheat them.
In general, because of the poor survivability of coronaviruses on surfaces, the risk of spread from packages is low. If you are home delivering something, you have already taken the safer option than going out.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ‘Frequently Asked Questions’, official CDC website (accessed on 13th June, 2020)
- World Health Organization, ‘Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Myth busters, official WHO website (accessed on 13th June, 2020)
- World Health Organization, ‘Q&A on coronaviruses (COVID-19), official WHO website (accessed on 13th June, 2020)
