(Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Dylana Kneeshaw

COVID-19 SHOPPERS

“There is no need for that right now”: B.C health officials asking residents to cease panic purchasing

Mar 15, 2020 | 3:02 PM

VANCOUVER — Health officials in British Columbia are urging residents to reduce the panic buying behaviour seen around the province.

In an update yesterday (Mar. 14), BC Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry stated there were nine new cases of COVID-19 in the province, bringing the total to 73.

During the teleconference, Dix noted that there are now people recovering from COVID-19 at home in isolation in all five health authority regions in B.C.

Those returning from travel outside of Canada are asked to self-isolate for 14 days when they return, by staying home and not going to work or school, and monitoring for symptoms.

As the COVID-19 situation has developed, many stores in the province have experienced higher volumes of shoppers coming in to gather food and household supplies, which Dix says is not necessary.

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“There are no shortages of goods. What happens on shelves is the result of intense buying,” He stresses, “We are asking people to show moderation here to one another, and generosity to one another, and for the people working in the stores, and working in the industry so that we work together better as a community and a society.”

Acknowledging that many people engage in this practice out of uncertainty, and wanting to be prepared, Dr. Henry adds that the supply chains are strong, and residents should do their best to stay within semi-normal buying practices.

“I want to assure everybody that the supply is there, and we need to be measured in our approach and get what we need, but not to hoard, and not to have anxiety provoked purchasing.” she states, “There is no need for that right now.”

Earlier on Friday (Mar. 13), Premier John Horgan also addressed the over-shopping situation, saying he was disappointed to see people hoarding items then selling them online. (See below)

For up to date information from the BC Centre for Disease Control, click here.