This doctor says it's not a good idea to wear gloves when out shopping

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

From Cosmopolitan

If you've spotted people wearing masks or gloves during any recent trips to the supermarket, then you're not alone. Many have taken to wearing extra protective gear during lockdown in the hopes of preventing (or catching) coronavirus from spreading.

However, an NHS doctor, Dr Karan Rangarajan, has now taken to TikTok to share a short video on why actually, gloves aren't as helpful as you might think. The more you know, eh?

"You’ve got your gloves, you’re at the supermarket, you’re touching things – there you go… germs," he begins, scribbling on his glove with a biro to visibly demonstrate said germs. "You keep touching more things throughout same day with these same gloves, germs everywhere. You’re accumulating germs."

Related Video: How to Properly Wash Your Hands

So far, so ick. "Your glove is now more full of germs than your hand would’ve been if you washed each time," Dr Rangarajan continues. "Remember, with these same gloves you’ll be touching your steering wheel, you might accidentally touch your face, transferring the germs to yourself, then when you’re changing the gloves, you might actually be touching the glove itself."

He concludes the video by saying, "Just wash your hands, be sensible, stay safe."

If you're still a bit unsure as to the best way to approach a trip to the supermarket, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

  • Keep a two metre distance between yourself and other customers, and staff.

  • Shop alone, whenever possible.

  • Only buy essentials during your trip.

  • Take note of shop opening times that are specifically for the vulnerable, elderly and frontline workers (and respect them).

  • If you can, have your shopping delivered to your home instead.

Photo credit: Cosmopolitan
Photo credit: Cosmopolitan

Stay safe, everyone – and remember, social distancing is all for the greater good.

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