If you’re set to return to work in the near future, the spike in cases doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to protect yourself and your colleagues. Tap or click here to see our guide to returning to work safely during COVID-19. How this tracks out in the future, however, is unknown. Considering how rapidly the virus continues to spread, this remains a potential vector to keep an eye on. Once three hours have passed from delivery, you’ve reduced your chances of contacting any aerosol particles from the delivery person. Next, you’ll want to note your order’s packaging. If you receive a cardboard box, handle it with gloves (if possible) and place it in a safe, secure outdoor location — like a backyard, patio or balcony — for 24 hours. If it’s a plastic package or bag, you’ll want to leave it in your secure location for up to three days. When you’re finished handling the package, wash your hands. Hand sanitizer is fine if you’re on the go, but you must wash thoroughly with soap and water to be fully protected. Once enough time has passed, put on a fresh pair of gloves and wipe down the box or bag. If you have disinfecting wipes, you can use them — but a paper towel moistened in 70% isopropyl alcohol will also do the trick. You can use 90% alcohol, as well, but you need to dilute it. Give the items in your box a wipedown, too. Throw out all the packaging, gloves and whatever you used to disinfect, then wash your hands again. Now you’re ready to enjoy your order. Tap or click here to see how to properly sanitize food delivery and takeout orders.
Bonus: Use this map to get a bird’s-eye view of where COVID-19 is spiking
If you’re concerned with the state of your own neighborhood during the pandemic, simplified state maps aren’t going to cut it. If there’s a spike in a specific area, it can throw the state average off — even if case numbers are mild in your county. Thankfully, this new tracking map from spatial analytics company Esri gives you an easy-to-understand breakdown of COVID-19 cases at the county level. Hot spots are color-coded for your convenience, and community spread is ranked in terms of trends, so you can see exactly how risky it is to be going outside in your area. Whether we continue to do our best to slow the spread or eventually acquire herd immunity from all of the active infections, your guess is as good as ours is as to what comes next. We’re in uncharted territory, so make sure to do what you can to protect yourself and your loved ones. Tap or click here to see three proven ways to stay safe from COVID-19. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, advice, or health objectives.
