Hand gels and masks out of stock locally

HAND sanitizers and face masks were almost completely out of stock in stores and pharmacies across Dundalk this week as people rushed to stock up as the number of cases of the novel coronavirus continued to rise in Ireland.

In Boots, a sign on the pharmacy counter advised customers that there were no masks or hand sanitizers in stock. In fact, a staff member said they hadn’t had face masks in stock since the end of January, despite medical experts advising that face masks don’t prevent people from catching Covid-19. She also revealed that any stocks of hand santizer which they get in are bought within minutes of the shop opening.

In Smyth’s Life Pharmacy, Anne McEnteggert confirms that they are unable to source masks and hand sanitizer for customers.

‘We don’t know when they will become available,’ she said, explaining that in the case of masks, the manufacturers have a priority list, with hospitals and healthcare workers getting priority.

To meet the demand for hand santizers, she said that the pharmacy had sourced a recipe for home made santizer, which she had posted on their Facebook page.

She also advised people to take a Vitamin D supplement to help build their immune system, pointing out that people in the northern hemisphere would have depleted Vitamin D levels after the winter months.

There were reports of empty shelves in local supermarkets over the weekend as people stocked up on pasta, tinned foods, toilet paper and anti-bacterial soaps.

The HSE advises people to wash their hands properly and often - ordinary handsoap is ok. This is particularly important after being in public places, such as public transport or in a crowd (especially an indoor crowd) It also advises people to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when they cough and sneeze.

People should keep their hands in good condition, moisturise them often. Any basic product that is not perfumed or coloured is safe to use.

Do not wear gloves instead of washing hands. The virus gets on them in the same way it gets on hands. Also,their hands can get contaminated when the gloves are taken off.

Put used tissues into a bin and wash their hands.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Avoid close contact with people who are not well.

People are advised not to touch their eyes, nose or mouth if their hands are not clean.

Meanwhile, local businesses have also confirmed steps being as concern grows over an outbreak of the Coronavirus.

The Carnbeg Hotel have published ‘extensive measures’ which they say are being undertaken ‘ to ensure customers and staff are protected.’

These include ‘ three times daily sanitation of all public customer and staff touch points with hospital grade sanitiser, regular steam cleaning and fabric and hard surfaces, daily cleaning with hospital grade cleaner of all bedroom guest touch points an increased sanitation of all surfaces in the hotel kitchens.’