1. Medications and health essentials
Whether we're in the middle of a pandemic or not, if you have medical conditions, being equipped to treat them is important. However, during a crisis we're currently facing, being well prepared is even more vital. Dr. Kennedy suggests any medication or health essentials you need should be a priority.
"For those with health conditions and those taking regular medications, ensuring we’re up to date with prescriptions and have items essential for our needs (like puffers or other essentials) is key," he says.
"Talk to your doctor about this, and check that prescriptions are filled or updated."
RELATED: 3 Myths About Coronavirus You Need To Stop Believing
2. Supportive medication
While it's important to have enough prescriptions filled, consider stocking up on over-the-count meds that can help ease the symptoms.
"Mild symptoms of coronavirus (which appear to be the case for most) can benefit from basic aides just like your regular cold/cough," Dr. Kennedy continues.
"Have paracetamol and your other go tos on hand and in supply."
3. Long life food items
Just like medication, having food that will last the isolation period is equally important. Dr. Kennedy recommends stocking up on foods with a long shelf life – just don't go overboard, have a good think about what you'll really need to last two to three weeks. Look to the frozen food aisle and for products that can be used for an array of meals.
"Recommendations around isolation at this stage aren’t for longer than 14 days - it’s thus important we stay calm and avoid anxiety around wanting to fill the cupboards with enough chickpeas for a year. Having a supply of frozen food items and long life go to’s like rice is a good idea, but remember that complete cut off from contact isn’t what’s recommended here. Other members of the house not in isolation can still go out as normal, and if we live alone having supplies dropped off by family/friends or even delivered is still possible. Now is not the time to be stripping shelves or buying up exhaustive supplies."
4. Face masks and hygiene
Sure, people have been going hard on toilet paper and and yes, it's important to have some. But it's also important to make sure you have a think about what you'll need for the quarantine period. Others need access to basic hygienic products so consider them when you're stocking up – if you are overbuying, someone in need could be missing out.
When it comes to the products, ensure you have items that will cover basic hygiene as well as protective gear that can help you stay healthy.
"If we live with others and do happen to find ourselves in recommended isolation, then face masks are advised when in the same room or in direct contact with other people. Having a supply in this case is thus important - and another reason why we need to leave off buying these so there are supplies for those who actually need them," Dr. Kennedy adds.
"Follow online guides for how to properly fit a face mask, and make sure to wash your hands thoroughly when putting them on/taking them off. Close attention to hygiene is important here as well, so ensuring products to wash down surfaces and (vitally) wash hands thoroughly are in stock too."
RELATED: How To Prepare For 14 Days Of Coronavirus Self Isolation
5. Anxiety busters
Lastly, if you're double-guessing whether you have everything you need for a 14-day staycation, don't forget a bit of entertainment. This will help if you struggle with being alone or you want to make time move faster.
"The idea of isolation (along with everything else) can be an anxiety provoking one. And so while it sounds too simple to even say, having something on hand to pass the time and calm nerves can be helpful. Investing in a few decent books, talking about any anxieties or fears with others, trying a home workout program and (of course) that Netflix subscription are just some ways to help pass the time and stay occupied."
