How Risky Is That Box? Here's What Experts Are Saying About Packages During Coronavirus

April 07, 2020 - 12:35 pm

If you’re nervous that you’ll contract the coronavirus from an egg carton, an Amazon box or a bill in the mail, you’re not alone.

But health experts say the risk is very low when it comes to becoming infected with COVID-19 by touching a package or something you picked up at the store.

While the virus can be detected on hard surfaces for hours or days, depending upon the material, WWJ's Dr. Deanna Lites reports that doesn't mean it stays potent for that length of time.

Dr. Rena Daiza, MD, a Family Medicine expert with Henry Ford Hospital, says it's a good idea to be careful, but don't be afraid to get the mail.

"It's just taking those standard precautions," Daiza said. "So remember, it's a respiratory virus, so you would have to get in contact with the virus with your hands, for example, after touching a surface. and then touch your face."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says "there is no evidence that food or food packaging has been linked to getting sick from COVID-19."

Regardless, Dr. Daiza said it's a good idea to use disinfecting wipes, such as Clorox wipes, to clean boxes, as well as cans and bottles you bring home from the grocery store. Then don't touch your face, and wash your hands. 

"So just being mindful, again," Daiza added. "Just being cautious, but not anxious."

Need more tips? The CDC recommends the following:

Shopping for food and other household essentials

—Avoid shopping if you have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
—If possible, order food and other items online for home delivery or curbside pickup.

Here are ways to protect yourself while shopping

—Stay at least 6 feet away from others while shopping and in lines.
—Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when you have to go out in public.
—Disinfect the shopping cart, use disinfecting wipes if available.Cover coughs and sneezes.
—Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.If possible, use touchless payment (pay without touching money, a card, or a keypad). If you must handle money, a card, or use a keypad, use hand sanitizer right after paying.
—At home, follow food safety guidelines: clean, separate, cook, chill.

Accepting deliveries and takeout orders

—If possible, pay online or on the phone when you order.
—Otherwise, stay at least 6 feet away from the delivery person.
—After receiving your delivery or bringing home your takeout food, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Get more information, including on how to protect yourself and your family while slowing the spread of the virus, from the CDC at this link.

Get the latest coronavirus updates on RADIO.COM.

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