People should try to only shop for food once a week during lockdown, the Public Health Agency has said.
The agency has warned anyone who feels unwell, particularly if they have a high temperature or a continuous cough, not to go shopping.
The over-seventies, pregnant women or those in a vulnerable group have also been told to stay at home.
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Dr Gerry Waldron, head of health protection at the PHA, said: "For many people who are rightly socially distancing and following guidance, going to a shop at the minute can be quite stressful, as it can mean touching communal surfaces such as trolleys and baskets, and being indoors with other people who aren’t members of your household.
"However, by following some simple steps, you can help protect yourself and others when shopping, and also take some of the worry out of a trip to pick up supplies."
Top tips
- Try to reduce the number of shopping trips to once a week
- Avoid taking children or other family members to the shop
- Try to shop at off-peak times
- Try to go to quieter local shops or arrange with local shops for collection or deliveries. Many smaller shops are now offering local deliveries.
The agency warned people not to stockpile items and to use freezers to store perishable food including bread and meats.
Dr Waldron said people should wash their hands before and after their shopping trips, try to use a contactless payment card and wipe down the handles of your trolley or basket before and after use.
The PHA has produced a leaflet with advice at www.pha.site/safershopping
