Before anything else, experts would advise that you stay home instead. Is it really necessary? Are the risks worth your dining experience? Have you considered having the food delivered to your doorstep instead?
Some states in the U.S. are now allowing food establishments to move back into indoor dining. On the other hand, some are still advised to stay at home due to surges in coronavirus cases such as Arizona and Tennessee.
Many are skeptical about the safety of dining in a restaurant while the pandemic is still ongoing. Experts such as Abraar Karan, a physician from Harvard Medical School, warns that if someone in your household is immunocompromised or is considered high risk for infection, it would be best to avoid restaurants altogether.
However, for those without such concerns and simply feel the need to get out and have a change in scenery, the National Public Radio suggests some practices and points to consider.
Coronavirus Pandemic: Dining Outdoors is Better
Karan says dining outdoors is less risky than eating indoors. Coronavirus droplets tend to disperse more quickly into the open air compared to confined spaces. But then again, ask yourself, is it essential to eat outside?
If you answered yes to this, then the next step would be to do some research. Dr. Mark Kortepeter, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's College of Public Health, suggests calling the restaurant to check in on them.
During times like these, it's better to be safe than sorry. Kortepeter suggests asking the restaurant what provisions they have to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Some things you have to ask about include the establishment's cleaning practices. Ask if they disinfect tables and chairs, and how often they do so.
Another thing to inquire is if they have hand sanitizers or any cleaning agents available for customer use upon entering and exiting the restaurant. Ask about any policies they might have for customers visiting them.
Lastly, ask about their staff and what protocols they are asked to follow. Check if they are required to wear face masks and if they are screened for signs of infection before starting their shift.
Tips For Indoor Dining Amidst COVID-19
Are you considering braving indoor dining? If so, here are also some points to consider. Social distancing should be implemented in the restaurants, and people dining in should observe them. Make sure that tables and guests are at least six feet apart. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that more is better.
Another thing to watch out for is if the restaurant has proper ventilation. Avoid small and cramped indoor spaces where air would most likely be trapped-the more airspace for particles to dissipate, the better.
Moreover, when heading out, it's better to be prepared by bringing your own protective gear, such as a hand sanitizer that would easily fit your bag or pocket, and of course, your face mask.
When ordering, Kortepeter advises getting hot, fully-cooked meals instead of raw fruits and vegetables. Although it hasn't been established whether the coronavirus can be transmitted through ingestion, researchers say that pathogens, in general, tend to flourish on raw and moist food.
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