With increasing pressures on hospitals, Watford Borough Council has issued a list of tips on how to “redouble” efforts and minimise the risk of spreading Covid-19 when visiting supermarkets.

Shopping in a supermarket is an essential task, and while some can order their foods and supplies online, shopping cannot be easily avoided.

And while the public is advised to avoid contact with other during current lockdown restrictions, there will be many chances of close contact with members of the public in a supermarket.

From one-way systems to hand sanitiser provision and checkout screens, shops and supermarkets are doing what they can, but all of their actions also rely on others to comply with rules.

Public Health England data at the start of November revealed supermarkets made up of 11.2 per cent of common locations that infections were reported, compared to 7.4 per cent from pubs or bars, and 7 per cent from restaurants or cafes.

These six simple steps tell shoppers what they should do before, during and after their trip to the supermarket in order to minimise their risk of contracting Covid-19 and take the ‘Covid strain’ out of shopping:

• Go alone if possible – it’s safer for you, your family and others

• Consider doing one big shop that lasts a couple of weeks

• Wear a mask in the shop and while queuing to get in (unless you are exempt)

• Sanitise your hands before and after you visit

• Keep a 2m distance - don't be tempted to move closer as you pick up items from the shelves

• Look but don’t touch items unless you are buying them

Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said “Whilst vaccines are on the way, we must redouble our efforts to keep ourselves, our families and loved ones safe. We are in the most difficult stage so far of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the local NHS under a lot of pressure. Although people must stay at home as much as possible, many of us will still be visiting supermarkets.

“Therefore, we are asking shoppers to take real care when shopping. Always wear a face covering and keep at least two metres distance from other people. This not only protects your health, but also shows respect for the health of others. It is so important that we all play our part to get the virus under control and prevent the local NHS from being overwhelmed with Covid-19 cases.”