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The Corona Virus (COVID-19) is here in Germany and while for many of us, it didn’t seem like something to be prepared for, perspectives quickly changed as numbers continued to rise.

Over the last couple of weeks I’ve heard a number of comments regarding the current health risks:

“I’m not scared of the Coronavirus, it’s like any other flu bug, we’ll get it, and get over it.”

“I’m terrified of the Coronavirus, I’m not leaving my house and I’ve already stocked up on emergency supplies for the next month.”

I’m sure you all agree that you’ve heard both sides of the argument in your circle of friends too. However, the thing is, there is no argument. Whether you’re in a panic or totally chilled out, Coronavirus is very much prevalent and very much alive. Whether you’re worried or not, there are things that we should all be doing to prepare ourselves for the potential of a nasty breakout.

For those of you who aren’t worried about catching the virus, that’s good! Staying calm is one of the most important things. However, if you are on the streets, interacting with people or visiting locations or events with many people, there is a chance that you, even without the virus, could be put in quarantine. That means while you may not be scared about catching the virus, being prepared is important.

For those of you in a panic, it is natural to be worried, but try not to let your fear of the virus cause you to make irrational decisions.

So for all of you living in Düsseldorf, here is how you should prepare for the Coronavirus

Wash your hands

This should seem obvious, but one of the most effective ways of avoiding getting sick is to make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and frequently throughout the day.

Avoid ill people and avoid people if you are ill

It’s that time of the season, we are all stuck with different infections, colds, and cases of flu. Whether or not you think someone may have the Coronavirus, you need to make sure that you’re staying healthy. Catching a cold means your immune system is not at its best, which could make you more susceptible to catching other illnesses.

Stock up on supplies – but please, no need to adapt to the “Hamsterkauf” method

Yes, it is true, the shelves at the supermarkets were running low, and that is because many people here in Düsseldorf had been joining the craze of the “Hamsterkauf“. Hamsterkauf is a word they use in German to describe the act of buying in panic and/or hoarding, often due to a fear of something (in this case, Coronavirus). However, don’t buy in panic. Sit down, do some research and figure out what you and your family may need in case a 2-week quarantine is suggested (2-weeks is the current estimate that it takes to confirm if someone has COVID-19). Be realistic, be rational.

You can also consider ordering your groceries online at shops like EDEKA24

The Preparation Shopping List (in case you need to quarantine)

A 2-week supply of non-perishable foods
- Dried/canned beans
- Grains (rice, wheat flour, oatmeal, quinoa, etc.)
- Dried fruits
- Nuts and nut butter
- Oils (vegetable oil, olive oil, etc.)
- Frozen vegetables and fruits
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Snacks (crackers, popcorn, cookies, granola bars)
- Drinks (water, tea, coffee, etc.)
- Baby-related items (jars of food, breakfast cereals, etc.)
A 2-week supply of household items
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Toiletpaper
- Sanitary products
- Baby-related items (diapers, wipes, etc.)
- Dish soap, hand soap, shampoo, and conditioners
A one-month supply of any medical prescriptions
A one-month supply of over-the-counter medications (these can also be purchased online)
- Paracetamol
- Ibuprofen
- Nausea medications
- Cough, cold, and flu medications
- Electrolyte drinks or tablets
- Vitamins

In the event that quarantine is advised, make sure you have a list of perishables you would like to have during your 2-week quarantine and arrange for someone to pick these up for you. Some things to consider:

Fresh fruits and vegetables
Meats
Cheeses
Milk
Yogurt
Butter
Eggs

Do not buy surgical face masks! The widespread panic over the Coronavirus has caused a shortage of surgical facemasks. For people who really need them (infected patients and health care workers) this is causing a huge issue. Please, avoid buying surgical face masks so that those who need them have the supplies readily available. Instead, sew your own or buy some masks from a local shop.

When should you buy surgical face masks? If you have the Coronavirus, then wearing a surgical face mask can help to prevent spreading the virus to your loved ones. If you are a health care worker dealing with and caring for people with illnesses, you should be wearing a surgical face mask.

The City of Düsseldorf has prepared an English informational package that will be constantly updated and added to.

The city is actively working on keeping citizens up-to-date and calm. They have recently published an English informational package which includes answers to all the frequently asked questions regarding Coronavirus including: