Is It Safe to Eat Outdoors and Indoors at Restaurants During the Coronavirus Pandemic?
By Samantha Krevolin
At this point in time, America has many states that have already reopened or are in the process of doing so. With the start of a return to normalcy comes the rush of people to their favorite restaurants they have missed these past four months. A lot of questions arise from this reopening as to how people should behave in order to avoid contracting the virus through the public space of a restaurant. There are still a lot of ambiguities, but based on what is known about the virus so far, some recommendations and suggestions can be made.
With restaurants reopening at different phases across the country, it is important to look into how each state is handling each phase, and what’s available within local areas. There is debate as to whether eating indoors, outdoors or avoiding restaurants completely is the safest option. Although one solution cannot be said for certain, there are different circumstances for individuals in which one has to keep in mind.
In general, eating inside a restaurant is the riskiest option. This is because once inside the restaurant, the air is circulating between tables, regardless of the six feet distance apart. If eating indoors, it is safer to eat in a restaurant that has good ventilation. However, while inside the restaurant, all customers will have their maks off to eat for the majority of their time spent inside. Without a mask, there is an even greater risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to others. The virus is thought to spread the most when indoors, so if worried or concerned about getting COVID-19, try to avoid eating indoors until further information is known.
On the other hand, eating outdoors lowers the risk of contracting the virus, and allows people to still experience the restaurant environment they have missed. When eating outside, it is still very important that the tables are set six feet apart, especially since masks will not be worn at all times. Although customers may not have to wear a mask during the time they are eating, all customers should still ensure that their waiters and staff are wearing masks while serving and working. Since workers are coming in contact with other patrons, the mask will protect themselves and those they are serving. Even when outdoor dining, the CDC recommends that groups should be no larger than 10 people since everyone will remain in close contact with one another at the table.
Overall, if individuals are at high risk, immunosuppressant, or in contact with someone that is, at this time it is best to avoid outdoor and indoor dining. When dining at restaurants, there is contact with so many individuals whether they are serving people, walking by tables, or using the restroom. Also, not all indoor air filters are completely effective with the virus. If one is concerned about getting COVID-19, it might keep their best interest in mind to pick up the food and take it to the comfort of home. That way, all contact with others is avoided, worries are put to bed, and individuals can still enjoy the wonderful food their favorite restaurants have to offer.
As time goes on and changes with the information known on the spread of COVID-19 advances, the way people eat and go to restaurants will change again. Right now, based on the evidence obtained, what is stated above is how many medical professionals and the CDC recommends going about outdoor eating. As normalcy is beginning to return, it is important to keep in mind that it will take time to get there, and everyone should appreciate the little things like the food, whether eaten to go, outside or indoors people’s favorite restaurants have to offer.