Panic buying is gripping southeast Queensland as people prepare for a 3 day compulsory lockdown to contain a possible outbreak of the highly contagious UK variant of COVID-19.
The Premier announcing a 3 day lockdown
Residents in the council areas of Logan City, Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and Redlands will be required to stay at home until 6pm on Monday.
Those who live outside the area, but who travelled through the region since January 2nd, should also self isolate as part of the lockdown.
Major supermarkets are considering reinstating limits on toilet paper and paper towels following a surge in demand.
Massive crowds have stripped supermarket shelves of toiletries, perishables and canned goods with lines stretching for hundreds of metres at some stores.
Shoppers face long waits of up to two hours during the countdown to the 6pm Friday deadline, with social media flooded with images of bare shelves and long checkout lines.
Woolworths is encouraging shoppers to “only buy what they need”.
“Stock will continue to flow to stores from our distribution centres.
“We are currently reviewing the situation closely and will introduce product limits if required.”
People in Greater Brisbane also face the first mandatory order to don face masks outside their homes, prompting a rush to get the essential protection.
Shoppers have swarmed pharmacies and Bunnings where the masks have been sold in bulk in recent months.
Queensland Health has called for calm, reminding the Brisbane community that supermarkets and essential businesses will remain open.
“There are no concerns that supermarket supplies are at risk during this three- day period,” a spokesman said.
People will only be allowed to leave their home for essential work, exercise, essential shopping and to access healthcare or to look after the vulnerable.
Masks are mandatory for anyone outside their home, aside from children under 12.
Click HERE to read our earlier story about the Premier’s announcement.
