Ermelo pharmacies report locals panic-buying hand sanitizer and other products

Pharmacies in Ermelo have reported that local residents are panic-buying and stockpiling hand sanitizer, surgical/face masks, gloves and surface disinfectants amid the current Corona Virus pandemic.

According to Mr Cliff Fourie, pharmacist at Fouries Pharmacy & Clinic in Ermelo, they have seen an increase in sales of the above mentioned items to a point where some items are soon to be out of stock.

“We have effectively limited people to one hand sanitizer per person as several people are stocking-up.”

The pharmacy has now began assembling packages that include all of the high demand items.

Mr Fourie, as a preventative measure, advised people to practice good hygiene and regularly wash their hands as well as to avoid touching their faces as far as possible.

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Ms Shanell de Villiers, assistant pharmacist at the local choice pharmacy Melrow, said they too have been inundated with requests for these items and indicated that

Vitamin C tablets and immune boosters are also among the most sought after items.

“We have seen a tremendous increase in the demand for these items and are having difficulties in ordering more as suppliers are struggling to keep up with the high volume demands.”

She mentioned that some clients will buy items without any quantitative limitations, which in effect can lead to sudden shortages.

Among other items, she also mentioned a shortage of surgical gloves, face masks and Dettol wipes.

She urged Ermelo residents to stay calm, drink enough water, follow good hygienic practices such as regularly washing their hands with soap and water and also said they should follow a sound diet to ensure a healthy immune system.

Read the complete article in the next Highvelder Newspaper.