Australians Are Panic-Buying Toilet Paper Because of Coronavirus

Supermarket shelves are empty.

With 42 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Australia and countries around the world preparing for a global pandemic, Aussies have been understandably concerned. 

This apprehension has resulted in people down under flocking to supermarkets to panic buy toilet paper, leaving shelves completely empty. 

It's quite the scene to behold, and the footage needs to be seen to be believed. 

The level of hoarding that has occurred has forced Woolworths to limit the amount of loo rolls that people can buy. As of today, customers can only purchase four packs of toilet paper in-store and online.

"It will help shore up stock levels as suppliers ramp up local production and deliveries in response to higher than usual demand," a Woolworths spokesperson told The Age. 

Woolworths aren't the only company ramping things up. Manufacturer Kimberly-Clarke has production lines running 24 hours a day to address the increased demand. 

Additionally, toilet paper subscription service Who Gives A Crap have sold out of all their products. 

Although, it seems we don't have to worry about running out of toilet paper in Australia. Dr Bowden told the ABC, "Technically we have very good supply. We have a major Australian manufacturer based in South Australia."

She also added that crowd psychology is another factor contributing to the buying frenzy.

"If you see someone buying something, and you don't buy that, and it's then unavailable, you can feel buyer's remorse." 

Despite the panic buying, health authorities have advised Aussies to continue going about their daily routines as normal. They've also stressed the importance of washing your hands and maintaining good personal hygiene. 

Earlier this week, Australia recorded its first case of human-to-human transmission of COVID-19, and another case was confirmed in Sydney today.

Header Image: Twitter (@SoniaCrestpac & @Krudler62)