Is it Safe to Do Grocery Shopping at Costco Amidst Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

The safety of grocery shopping during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to be a concern for many. While remote purchases and curbside pickup reduce the risk, visiting in-person stores like Costco presents a different set of challenges. In this article, we will explore the present and proposed safety measures in Costco and discuss the overall safety of shopping there.

Understanding the Risk

A reputable study from LA County has shown that the mortality rate of COVID-19 is relatively low, falling between 0.1% and 0.2%. This is slightly higher than the flu but significantly more contagious. However, the far-left’s interpretation of these numbers is often skewed or ignored, leading to misinformation and confusion.

It's important to note that the low mortality rate is partly due to a large number of asymptomatic cases that were not widely reported. Recent data suggests that around 4% of adults have been exposed to the virus without realizing it. This highlights the importance of community transmission and the need for continued precautions.

Personal Experience at BJ's

My experience at BJ's provides a perspective on the safety measures in place at a large, well-regulated store. BJ's is known for its expansive aisles, which are twice as wide as those in common supermarkets. This helps in maintaining social distancing. Although the store is fairly crowded, the use of face masks and gloves significantly reduces the risk of transmission.

Upon reaching my car, I disinfect each item with a homemade solution of 2/3 70% isopropyl alcohol and 1/3 water. This additional step can provide an extra layer of protection, ensuring that any potential contaminants are neutralized before bringing the items into my home.

Observations at Costco

While BJ's has protocols in place, it's essential to consider the safety measures at Costco, as well. I visited my local Costco in the Bay Area recently and found that the store has taken several precautions to mitigate the risk of transmission.

Costco limits entry to control the number of customers inside, ensuring that everyone maintains a safe distance of at least 6 feet from each other. On a weekday during the day, it's generally not challenging to enter without a long wait. During the wait, employees hand out napkins pre-saturated with sanitizer, which can be used to wipe down items of concern.

Once inside, the store is not crowded, making it easier to maintain the 6-foot rule. Additionally, the food court is closed, and no samples are provided. The butcher section is also shut down to further reduce the risk of contamination. Other areas that require physical contact, such as the cashier section, are still functional but with necessary precautions in place.

While the experience at Costco involves some risks, it is, in many ways, as safe as it can realistically be during the pandemic. Personal responsibility, such as wearing face masks and using personal disinfectants, plays a crucial role in maintaining safety.

Conclusion

Given the current understanding of the coronavirus and the safety measures in place at stores like Costco, it is possible to do grocery shopping with a reasonable level of safety. Whether you choose to shop online, curbside, or in-store, it is essential to follow guidelines and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.