With news of more suspected coronavirus diagnosis spreads across the UK, panicked Brits are now taking preventative measures into their own hands.
Items like protective masks and sanitisers are now flying off the shelves in stores and online as demand increases, fueling fears of serious outbreaks reaching our shores. Online retailer Wowcher has already reported high demand for its protective face masks bundles for £10.99 that are reduced from £17.
The masks come in a set of ten and are made from a non-toxic polypropylene, designed to protect the wearer from airborne flu and cold germs, dirt and pollution. Buyers who redeem the offer can get the packs via the next-day delivery.
Other retailers like Amazon and eBay are also selling packs of masks, with prices ranging from £2.50 to over £50 for bumper packs.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated online that masks are advisable to wear if you are coughing or sneezing or taking care of someone with suspected 2019-nCoV infection.
Adding: "Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water."
The WHO also recently released information that debunked 13 myths about how to beat virus including warnings that spraying yourself with chlorine or using hand dryers won't kill the deadly bug.
The advice follows concerns from coronavirus expert, Professor Paul Hunter, of the University of East Anglia's (UEA) Norwich Medical School, who suggests the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories could lead to more cases in the UK.
The professor has said fake news can lead to people taking "greater risks" during health crises.
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens also suggested that many more people in the UK may need to self-isolate to contain the illness, which is officially called Covid-19.
