But it looks like all that worry was for not. After initial reports of the potential for the SARS-CoV-2 to survive on surfaces, it appears that these days, data suggests that grocery store transmission on surfaces is extremely low.
A recent study from the University of Guelph found that there was no evidence of the virus on several grocery store surfaces.
They swabbed carts, baskets, payment terminals, surfaces around deli counters, and handles in the frozen food sections of several grocery stores at different times and in a variety of neighborhoods. Tests showed zero traces of SARS-CoV-2.
Of course, that could have to do with the fact that many stores have implemented strict mask-wearing policies and have taken action to wipe down high-touch surfaces more regularly.
Overall, however, it looks like the risk for COVID-19 exposure from surfaces at the store is pretty slim.
That does not mean that masks don’t need to be worn while shopping. Remember that the virus spreads easily through air droplets and the delta variant seems to infect even more easily than past variations of the virus,
Keep your mask on when you’re in public spaces to minimize risk, but don’t get too worried about picking up the virus when you touch surfaces.
Hand hygiene, of course, is always important. With cold and flu season fast approaching, it’s one of the best ways to reduce risk and help out your immune system.
Wash your hands whenever you start or finish an outing and carry a container of sanitizer on you for emergencies.