Everyone is worrying about COVID-19. At home preparation is essential for social distancing and in the unfortunate event that yourself or a loved one becomes ill. Stocking up on the basics is a good approach. But, what do you need to have on hand? Linda V. DeCherrie, MD, Professor of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, shares what you should have in your COVID-19 Emergency Care Kit.
What types of things should I keep on hand?
In general, you want to have cleaning and hygiene products, a 30-day supply of any medications you may be taking as well as other health care items, and food.
Besides my prescription medication, are there other medicines or medical supplies that I should have on hand?
You might want to stock up on daily multivitamins, vitamin C tablets, and electrolyte replacement drinks, such as sports drinks. Over-the-counter medications are also helpful—including cough, cold, and diarrhea relievers as well as pain and fever relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If there is a child in the home, be sure to pick up children’s versions.
If you have special medical supply needs, try to have at least 30 days of supplies such as oxygen supplies, catheters, syringes, as well as blood test monitors and strips. Ensure any medical equipment you use is in good repair. This includes oxygen equipment, nebulizers, CPAP machines, hearing aids, glasses, and assistive technologies.
Also, you might want to have a pulse oximeter—which measures both oxygen levels and heart rate—as well batteries to operate the device. And, if you use a cane, crutch, walker, or wheelchair; check to make sure it is in good shape.
Are there specific cleaning and hygiene products that I should use?
When it comes to basic sanitation and hygiene items, try to have bleach, soap, hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, face masks, laundry detergent, and garbage bags on hand. You’ll also want to have some basic first aid supplies at home, like an inexpensive digital thermometer, gloves, and bandages.
Be sure to think about the non-food items you regularly purchase at the pharmacy or grocery store and try to have at least two weeks’ worth on hand. This includes toilet paper, toothpaste, tissues, batteries for hearing aids, and contact lens solution.
What should I have in terms of food?
The best case is to have about 30 days’ worth of food on hand. You’ll want to have nonperishable or canned food in your cabinet or pantry. Basics like rice, beans, and peanut butter are inexpensive and keep well. You might also want to have chicken soup, fresh ginger, onions, lemons, and oregano as well as high-calorie nutrient-rich foods such as avocados, honey, and pectin-rich foods like bananas and apples. If there are people in your family who need special foods—such as infants or people with dietary restrictions—be prepared for their needs as well. For more on how to stock your pantry during COVID-19, read this advice from Mount Sinai nutritionists.
If you have a pet, don’t forget stocking up on food, kitty litter, and pet medications.