The stockpiling of supplies has officially started amid the COVID-19 outbreak, with people around the world rushing to prepare for the possibility of their city going into lockdown.
In New Zealand, "overwhelming customer demand" saw the closure of two Auckland-based Gilmours after the first confirmed coronavirus case incited mass panic-buying. Shelves once filled with toilet rolls were stripped bare, while a frustrated Food and Grocery Council said there was no need for people to hoard tinned food and hand sanitiser.
Meanwhile in Canada, a man has been spotted stocking up on some very different supplies.
While scouting out panic-buyers at a local Costco, Vancouver-based CKNW talk-show host and Global BC reporter Jill Bennett spotted a man with 16 boxes of condoms and a large jar of coconut oil in his trolley.
"I was sent to a Costco to see if people are stocking up (even though health officials say it’s not necessary) in case COVID-19 gets more serious here," Bennett shared on Twitter on Monday (NZT).
"This guy came out of the store with 16 boxes of condoms and a big jar of coconut oil. We all have priorities."
A cameraman covers the condom-hoarder's identity, although a bald head is visible.
The post has incited hilarity on Twitter, amassing more than 52,900 likes. A number of social media users have questioned the logistics of pairing condoms and coconut oil together, with some reaching out to medical experts for advice.
Others have speculated whether there's more behind the bulk-buying than just a rampant sex drive.
As of February 29, 2020, 20 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Canada, with eight in British Columbia. If Vancouver does go on lockdown, at least this man will be kept sufficiently occupied.
