Gloves

[Waitinginthewings]

I'm really scared of getting Coronavirus. Ive got close family/ friends who have very serious health issues and I don't want to pass it to them.

I'm thinking of doing my food shopping wearing gloves that I throwaway at the end of the shop. (Plastic/ latex gloves). Is this a stupid idea?

No, but you might find it hard to buy the gloves. All sold out in big nearby supermarket, and most marigold types nearly all gone too

I've already got gloves.

It’s a very good idea and you can still buy them cheaply.

Gloves do work if you only wear them for a short period of time (your shop) and if you don't touch your face while wearing them and so long as you get rid of them afterwards. If they didn't work HCPs wouldn't be wearing them....

Same applies to masks in that they're effective at stopping you touching your face despite what the government says.

If you touch your face while wearing them then they are no better than your bare hands.

Seen a fair few people wearing gloves around the shops today. Have also been wearing them myself for commuting on the tube.

Hand washing is more effective. Gloves are always porous and are easily damaged. If you wear them for a short period then I guess you'll feel better but you should wash your hands after you take them off anyway.