As the number of confirmed Coronavirus cases reaches six, inhabitants of Tirana and other cities have been panicking about buying essential items such as food, diapers and toilet paper.
As of yesterday evening, pharmacies had run out of rubbing alcohol, antibacterial handwash and soap, and some prescription medications. Supermarkets were running low, or empty on toilet paper, milk, and floor and surface cleaners. Some reported frantic scenes as people with masks and gloves and as many as two trollies raced to stock up on items
This morning, the panic seemed to have subsided somewhat, allowing workers to restock shelves with necessities.
Shop and pharmacy owners that Exit spoke to assured them that they have enough items to meet demand and that it just takes some hours to restock.
Elona Hametaj, the CEO of Spar Albania, told Monitor that they had experienced a 300% in sales on Monday. She emphasised that they would not be putting prices up, stores would not be closing and no products were out of stock. Calling for calm and common sense, she added that the chain had taken all measures for this situation as they had seen what happened in other countries and taken appropriate preemptive action.
In terms of items, flour, pasta, oil, sugar, water and detergents have seen a big surge in popularity and the value of each transaction is way above average.
Tirana Agricultural Market saw a big increase in the sale of oranges as Tirana residents raced to boost their vitamin C levels, in the hope that this will protect them from the virus. Traders reported that citizens were purchasing oranges and other citrus fruits by the crate, rather than the kilo.
Schools throughout the country will remain closed for at least two weeks and flights from Italy have been cancelled until at least April. The government has also banned public and non-public gatherings, conferences, events, concerts and sports events. Those found breaking the rules could be charged under the Law on the Spread of Infectious Diseases.
The whole of Italy is now in quarantine and people within the country can only move for work or emergency. Anyone wishing to move from one city to another must fill out a written statement declaring their reasons. The total dead hit 463 in Italy yesterday with 9583 infected and 724 cured.
