Target Sets Purchase Limits Amid New Coronavirus Outbreak

MINNEAPOLIS — Empty shelves in the hand sanitizer section have become a common sight in stores across the nation. As the number of cases of the new coronavirus steadily rises in the United States, customers have stockpiled antibacterial wipes and gels.

Minneapolis-based Target is settling purchase limits to prevent a handful of people from ransacking the entire supply of sanitizers, among other products.

"As demand for cleaning products, medicine, pantry stock-up items and more remains high, we’re sending more products to our stores as quickly as possible," CEO Brian Cornell said in a statement Tuesday.

"And this weekend, we started to limit the number of key items per purchase, which will allow more guests to get what they need."

To avoid spreading disease, Cornell says stores have temporarily stopped offering food samples. They're also increasing staff for services such as "Order Pickup" and "Drive Up" that allow customers to avoid spending much time at the store.

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Minnesota. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

So far, two people in Minnesota have tested positive for the new coronavirus, officially called COVID-19. A total of 82 residents have been tested, with 80 of those tests coming back negative.

Here are general tips from the Minnesota Department of Health to protect yourself:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into your sleeve, and then throw the tissue into the trash.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your face — especially your eyes, nose and mouth — with unwashed hands.
• Stay home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Also read: Parent Of Shakopee Students Exposed To New Coronavirus