By Christiana Osuoha
It is disheartening to see that our nation is also being threatened by the outbreak of the global pandemic, the infamous corona virus. Strict measures are being taken to prevent its spread in various countries and states. One of them is the stay-home policy which could be strictly enforced in states where multiple cases are being confirmed, for example Lagos state.
One of the changes that may result is that markets and stores will be closed down, hence, the need to stock up essential items during this period. Since this is a country where we almost never experience natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquake we felt a need to create a comprehensive an essential list so that we don’t run out of things we need while being in abundance of supplies that we don’t really need. Most of the supplies we need are food, toiletries, water, fruits and fruit drinks, beverages and cereals, protective gears, over the counter drugs, cleaning supplies, baby supplies and others.
Food; when purchasing food items, we should take into consideration food that are easy filling because they can ward off hunger and help us eat less at the next meals. Foods like this have high protein, and fibre content. Examples are swallows (eba, fufu), soups, tubers (potatoes), eggs, vegetables (carrot), legumes (beans). A little goes a long way when it comes to these kinds of food. Purchasing a reasonable quantity will go a long way to ensuring that food stays longer. Healthy foods, fruits, and instant noodles are also advised.
Toiletries; a little of necessary essentials such as tissue paper, bathing soap, disinfectant, shampoos, shaving sticks and creams, colognes, deodorant and body spray toothpaste, pads etc
Cleaning supplies like detergent, bleach, dish washing liquids, toilet washing liquids, mops, dust pans, brooms and so on.
Over the counter medications (OTC) and prescriptions: OTC drugs are medicines sold directly to a consumer without a prescription from a health care professional as opposed to prescription drugs which may only be sold to consumers possessing valid prescription. Popular examples of OTC are pain relievers and cough suppressants. It is always advisable to have OTC in handy. If you are on prescribed medication, it is reasonable to get at least a two week dosage.
Baby supplies: if you have babies, you would want to make sure you don’t run out of diapers, baby formulas, wipes, toys. You would also want to make sure you get toys, puzzles, children videos and games to keep them busy.
Beverages and cereals; cocoa, milk, sugar, coffee, alcoholic drinks, fruit drinks, soft drinks and others.
Home exercise kits; to stay healthy during this period of sedentary lifestyle, it is advisable to get skipping ropes, dumb bells, yoga mats.
You could also add board games and video games to the list. After all, we are spending days at home doing nothing. This can help to keep you busy and reduce the boredom that self isolation brings.
It is also pertinent that we get productive during this period, read books, meditate, reflect on your 2020 goals, take online courses that would be beneficial to your job or business. There are a wide range of courses that you can take on platforms like udemy, coursera, hubspot and the likes.
And in all this, always maintain constant hygiene even while at home. Wash your hands, drink water, take fruits, exercise frequently (jogging at a spot works), spend some time online; on social media to connect to your friend, family and co-workers, be aware of the recent happenings in the world. I know it is hard but let us also see this as an opportunity to develop a closer knit with your family and form a stronger bond with them.
Comment here