State of Ohio: Stop Hoarding Toilet Paper
The Ohio Department of health asked Ohioans to stop clearing the toilet paper shelves at local stores. Instead, they offered their own list of what to stock up on if you fear you might be quarantined with the virus.
The panic came after Governor Mike DeWine shut schools for a three-week spring break starting next week, stopped all visits to nursing homes, and banned all gatherings of 100 people or more. This not include going to the store, though people are advised to try to go at off-peak hours to avoid close contact. In addition, delivery services available through retailers like Walmart are booked to the max. Same day delivery is no longer an option for many customers.
Ohioans responded by crowding shoulder to shoulder to strip the toilet paper shelves at bare at Walmart and other retailers. In a Tweet, the ODH reminded Ohioans that even if they do get sick, it’s only a 14-day quarantine and they don’t need a year’s worth of toilet paper. As a meme circulating around Facebook says, “If you need 200 rolls of toilet paper for a 14-day quarantine, you should have seen a doctor long ago.”
So what do you need if you face having to stay home for two weeks? Ohio suggests the following:
Nonperishable food items like:
• Canned fruits and vegetables, canned or powdered milk, broths, soup, meat products or fish, beans, stews, and any other canned items your family likes.
• Snack items like peanut butter, jelly, crackers, nuts, and granola bars.
• Frozen meals.
• Baby food or special items your family members may need.
Water and liquids with electrolytes like Pedialyte or sports drinks. Medications for all members of your family, including prescription medications and over the counter medicines like antacids, cough and cold medicines, pain relievers, and vitamins. Household items like toothpaste, soaps, and shampoos, toilet paper, diapers if necessary, laundry detergent and disinfectant wipes. Entertainment items like video games, movies or shows, board games, cards, reading materials, and anything else your family could do to stay entertained for extended amounts of time at home.
Don’t forget that the Portsmouth Public Library offers a variety of eMedia including books and movies that you can check out using your computer, phone, and tablet.
You can download your copy of the checklist by clicking here.