Panicked people stock up on supplies for possible coronavirus outbreak

PHOENIX - Across the country, people are preparing for the worst of the coronavirus as they stock up on hand sanitizer, wipes, and masks. Some people are just not waiting for health officials to formulate a plan to fight a possible outbreak.

They feel they need to gather supplies to prepare to be locked indoors should the worst-case scenario happen much like what's been seen in China.

However, Arizona officials are asking people to not get carried away stockpiling on items. Yet at local stores, empty shelves show people have been flocking to stores doing just that.

At the Costco on 44th Street and Thomas, there are signs above empty shelves for paper towels and toilet paper.

But Dr. Cara Christ with Arizona Department of Health Services says that's not necessary.

"We encourage the public, it is not recommended that if you are not symptomatic or have not been told by your health care provider to wear a mask, please do not wear masks. They are not recommended at this time," Dr. Christ said.

"It's been 50/50 from what I've seen so far. I've heard people saying I want to be as prepared as possible or something as simple as 'Hey just something good to have and something to have around the house just in case for me or the family,'" said Gabe Deleon with Allied Surplus.

In north Phoenix, business is booming for Allied Surplus. 

"Especially with the first few cases of coronavirus. The thing we've run out of the most is gas masks. People are mostly coming in mostly for emergency food, supplies and gas masks have been a thing. So anything biochemical or hazard, people have been really wanting," Deleon said.

MORE:

AZDHS.gov - Arizona COVID-19 response

Coronavirus symptoms, prevention, treatment, FAQ - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

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