The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and regional secretariats have launched an awareness campaign, calling on citizens to shop safely by following the instructions issued by the relevant authorities as well as to ensure implementation of health and safety measures against coronavirus by shopping centers. The move, which coincides with the advent of the holy month of Ramadan, is part of the national efforts to combat the pandemic. As part of the campaign, the ministry urged everyone to make the most of the electronic applications for the home delivery of regular orders in order to avoid direct shopping and crowding in market places and avoid staying in a shop or a store for a long time. It also called on shoppers to choose a time that is less crowded than the usual peak hours for movement and not to accompany children or the elderly who are considered to be among the most vulnerable to the disease. The ministry stressed the importance of shopping stores making sure that the trolleys are sterilized, and customers sanitize their hands before wearing gloves. It urged everyone not to touch products that they do not intend to buy, and not to touch mouth, nose or eye during shopping, while keeping a safe distance from customers or store employees. It also advised everyone to pay through electronic methods and throw used gloves at designated places outside the store. When back home from shopping, wash hands with soap and water and sanitize shopping bags before opening, storing or placing them in the refrigerator, the ministry said. It also requested everyone to report any violation of health requirements or the presence of a suspected case showing symptoms of the disease among workers in the shops by calling on the toll-free number 940. — SPA
